230 entries have been received at the Millicent Gallery, attracting artists from as far away as Melbourne and Adelaide, throughout the Limestone Coast and into Western Victoria, with 35 new artists entering this year.

The Youth category continues to attract a growing number of young artists and this year the Mount Burr Primary School are featuring their budding artists in the schools category.  All categories have been well supported and the level of enthusiasm from the artists enriches the celebration of art and the exhibition.

Council’s Manager Libraries and Gallery, Janice Nitschke said: “We are very much looking forward to working with judges Clare Belfrage and Herman Pekel who both have international reputations and extensive art experience.”

“They are looking forward to the challenges that come with judging such a varied exhibition, which showcases debutant entrants through to recognised artists who have widely exhibited, across six diverse categories,” Mrs Nitschke added.

Mayor Des Noll is equally excited, stating: “Wattle Range Council understands the positive impact small to medium sized galleries such as ours have on our local communities. They inspire their communities and visitors through art, stories, and ideas – creating jobs, educational and volunteering opportunities for many ages as well as community excitement and pride.”

Mrs Nitschke extends an invitation to artists, families and wider community to attend the opening of the Wattle Range Art Exhibition on Friday December 1st at 6.30pm. “Both judges will be in attendance to present the awards and local pianist Bridgette Doran will be playing background music at the opening, providing an additional arts element to this much-anticipated occasion,” she concluded.