Talented artists from all over the country are sending exhibits to a two-day exhibition in Balclutha that will culminate in an auction of artwork and other items.
South Otago's four leading arts groups, who together form the South Otago Creative Centre, are organising the event to be staged at the Balclutha War Memorial Hall on February 20 and 21.
Art South Otago, South Otago Patchwork Group, South Otago Embroiderers Guild and South Otago Creative Fibre are the key groups which own, run and maintain the arts centre in central Balclutha.
Maintenance costs and a desire to improve and expand the facility prompted the event, Art South Otago president Colleen Niovara-Dave said.
Money was always needed to keep the centre in good running order.
Plans to refurbish the interior, upgrade its kitchen facilities and improve the signs were all supported by members, who agreed a joint fundraising event was a good idea.
The exhibition, titled "Art and Objects of Desire", will be open to the public between 10am and 5pm both days, while the auction will be held on the night of Saturday, February 21, from 7.30pm.
While the event will mainly feature art for sale, Mrs Niovara-Dave said a signed Highlanders' rugby jersey would also be up for grabs.
As well, there would be a signed print by artist Grahame Sydney.
It was the first time all four arts groups had joined forces to raise money for their building, which was opened debt-free in 1993. Before that, they were based in an old house on the same site.
