Benalla Art Gallery is presenting a cabinet display of watercolours by local artist Carol Perry as the Gallery Shop exhibition throughout April.
Ms Perry began painting in watercolour after taking a course at Preston Technical College in 1964.
While studying and working in engineering, she refined her drawing skills by working on engineering plans of large machinery.
Ms Perry then went on to work for an industrial designer, followed by a gas manufacturing company, drawing three dimensional illustrations of parts and appliances.
Currently practising at the Benalla Broken River Painters studio, Ms Perry has the opportunity to paint what she is passionate about.
Her work has been included in art shows across north-east Victoria, and featured in an exhibition of work by the Broken River Painters at Benalla Art Gallery in 2016.
The exhibition of watercolour paintings focuses on Ms Perry’s love of the local scenery and native birds.
Ms Perry finds beauty and inspiration in the north-east Victorian landscape, with a particular interest in reflections on water.
Benalla Art Gallery director Eric Nash said this was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the sensitive watercolours of one of our local artists.
“(Ms Perry is) someone who has had a long involvement with the Benalla Art Gallery through both the Broken River Painters and as a volunteer,” Mr Nash said.
“I’m sure visitors will find great joy in viewing Carol’s paintings, which depict our local landscape and birdlife, two subjects which continue to provide limitless inspiration for many artists in our community.
“It’s evident how Carol’s professional career has technically informed her practice, which she can now channel into work she is passionate about.”
Ms Perry is excited to have an opportunity to exhibit her work in such a prestigious gallery.
“(I) felt very privileged to have the opportunity to display my watercolours in such a beautiful setting as our Benalla Art Gallery,” she said.
Ms Perry’s Reflections on the North East is the latest in a series of boutique Gallery Shop exhibitions that have been presented since the program was initiated in January 2022.
Since then, 14 Gallery Shop exhibitions have been displayed in cabinets prominently positioned at reception, primarily programmed from applications received.
The exhibition series gives visitors a unique view of work being created in the region, and is designed to better promote and support local and regional creative practices.
The exhibition is open until April 30. Find out more about Benalla Art Gallery at www.benallaartgallery.com.au