The much-loved Tanjil Valley art show has a new lease on life and will feature artists-in-residence performing demonstrations during its 12th year at the former Hill End Primary School site.
This year is the first time the art show has been held since the historic site was transferred from the management of a state government department to a community group and Tanjil Valley Art Show committee member Michael Dempsey said the “saving” of the school had given the show “extra strength”.
After almost 10 years of hard work and campaigning, Hill End Community Incorporated gained formal occupation rights over the former Hill End Primary School site in January this year.
“We have up to 334 entries already and there are always latecomers,” Mr Dempsey said.
“It’s a hidden gem of Victoria, people just don’t know about it, and I like to say, my little slogan is that it is the ‘greatest little art show in Gippsland’.”
The art show has strong connections to its community, with many prizes named after loved and significant locals, and has drawn viewers from across the globe.
“One of the things I love about [the art show] is that … we’re just a group of friends putting on an art show,” Mr Dempsey said.
“It’s such a community thing, especially for the children. All the children’s work is exhibited in the old Fumina building.”
The show draws entrants from around the region and beyond.
“We’re a talented bunch around here,” he said.
“We’re very proud of our community and our sponsors.”
The competition has a number of sections, including photography and art work with the theme of ‘best portrayal of the Tanjil Valley’ as well as youth art for ages 14-18 and youth art for ages 13 and under, with a theme of ‘what makes me happy’.
“We had one girl who began entering when she was in primary school and she is now in uni in Melbourne and to watch her work progress through the years was wonderful.”
This year the art show will include a marquee out the front of the school, creating extra room for artists-in-residence to conduct workshops and demonstrations for viewers, and extra space for the local catering.
The official opening of the art will be on Friday, June 8 , at the former Hill End Primary School on Paynter’s Road in Hill End, and admission is free at the opening.
The exhibition will also be open from 10am-4pm on Saturday, Sunday and Monday for a gold coin donation.
