The Rutherglen Tastes of Art Prize is set to return with a flourish in March, riding on the success of its previous year’s spectacular showcase.
As one of the most anticipated events in Rutherglen’s cultural calendar, the 2023 edition celebrated the vast talents of artists from around the country.
“We are thrilled to say that the 2023 Rutherglen Tastes of Art Prize was a great success on many fronts,” committee member Irena Webster said.
“The event could not have gone better. There was huge support from artists, with over 450 entries and over 80 artworks sold, plus it brought many more tourists to our area.
“What was perhaps the most heartening for Rutherglen as a township was the general attendance over the ten days of the art prize being open.
“Attendance was the largest ever, because of the execution of a well-timed print and social media promotional campaign targeting interstate and local visitors.
“We have been pleased to hear feedback from local businesses that they benefitted over this time with increased visitation.”
Scheduled from March 8 to the 17 at the Memorial Hall Rutherglen, the 2024 exhibition promises an even more enriching experience.
Coinciding with the town’s famed food and wine festival, it offers a perfect blend of artistic discovery and epicurean delights amid the mellow beauty of autumn.
With the call for entries now closed, the competition spans various categories including Painting/Mixed Media, Photography across several themes, Work on Paper, 3D Artworks, and a Youth Award, with substantial prizes up for grabs. This broad spectrum of categories reflects the diverse range of talents that the event attracts, from local heroes to interstate artists.
The support from the community and local businesses, notably Campbells Wines and Destination Rutherglen, has been instrumental in the success of the Art Prize, enabling it to offer a platform for artists and a cultural feast for visitors.
The previous year’s Gala Opening was a sold-out event, lauded for the high calibre of submissions and the rigorous judging process that highlighted the dedication of both artists and organisers to excellence.
The judges for the 2024 Tastes of Art Prize, Kate Gorman and Jules Boag, bring with them a wealth of experience and insight, promising a compelling evaluation of this year’s entries. Their task is to navigate the rich tapestry of creativity and innovation that defines the Rutherglen art scene.
As the town prepares for the 2024 Tastes of Art Prize, anticipation is building for what promises to be another landmark event.