The Birchip Art Show, now in its 38th year, continues to be a highly anticipated cultural event in Victoria’s Wimmera-Mallee region.
What began as a fundraiser for the “Friends of the Library” has evolved into a prestigious biennial celebration of artistic expression and culture, drawing attention from both established and emerging artists across the state.
The key to its enduring success lies in the remarkable quality of the artworks submitted by artists from all over the state. From seasoned professionals to promising newcomers, the show serves as a platform for diverse talents to shine.
This year’s show promises to uphold its legacy, offering a vibrant weekend of art, community, and creativity with guest judge Hop Dac, celebrated local artist Josie Lowerson and the work of last art show judge Louise Folletta amongst many other notable artists exhibiting.
Ex-Student
Josie Lowerson (formerly Josie Dillon) from Narraport is an ex-student of Birchip P-12 School and left to pursue a career in teaching. She studied Visual Arts at Melbourne University (Majors in Fine Art history, painting and wood), and is now a multi skilled artist who works with painting, photography, drawing, print and mixed media but specialises in sculpture.
Josie currently lives in North Queensland, but has recently been in Melbourne with her “Just A Sheila” exhibition at Fortyfivedownstairs Gallery in Flinders Lane, Melbourne. Josie has kindly left some of this display in Victoria to exhibit at the Birchip Art Show.
If you know of any artists who have not already entered, there is still an opportunity to exhibit. Please contact Simone Christie at the Birchip Neighbourhood House on 0429 922735 or email manager@birchipnh.com.au
There are prizes to be won for: Best in Exhibition, Best Oil, Best Acrylic, Best Watercolour, Best Digital Art, Best Photograph, People’s Choice, Packing Room Prize, Best Other Medium (no audio visual allowed) and Best Local Entry (artist within 100km of Birchip).
Gala Opening
The event will be inaugurated with a Gala Opening on Friday, November 1, from 7.30 p.m.. For just $20, attendees will get the first chance to purchase the art pieces in the exhibition as they peruse the art work in the show, enjoy complementary canapés and gain unlimited entry to the exhibition throughout the weekend. The announcement and critique of the winning entries by esteemed guest judge Hop Dac will take place at 8:30 p.m..
Local Connection
Guest Judge Hop Dac was born in Vietnam and arrived in Australia as a refugee in 1980, Hop Dac has lived a life steeped in artistic and literary pursuits and has a local connection to the Rickard family, being the partner of Marree Harris’s (nee Rickard) daughter.
His unique perspective as both an artist and writer makes him an exciting addition to this year’s art show, and his insights are highly anticipated.
Support
All the artworks displayed at the show are available for sale, with proceeds going toward the Birchip P-12 School’s art, culture, and library programs. The community’s support of this event helps nurture the creative development of local students and contributes to the cultural enrichment of the region.
For those interested in further supporting the art show, there are multiple sponsorship levels available: Curator ($500 and over), Collector ($250-$500), Muse ($100-$250 and Patrons (less than $100).
Donations of any denomination are gratefully accepted before or during the art show. Tax-deductible receipts are available for donations over $100. If you would like to become a sponsor please contact Andrew Sayle at the Birchip P-12 School.
The Birchip Art Show continues through Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd November, with a $5 entry fee for those who want to explore the exhibition and enjoy the weekend activities. A special treat will be the High Tea and Lunch available for purchase from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day, prepared by the Birchip P-12 School Hospitality Students.
Workshops
In addition, the Birchip Neighbourhood House will host a series of creative workshops for people of all abilities, offering a hands-on opportunity to explore various art forms.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced artist, these workshops provide a fun and educational experience. For details and bookings, contact Birchip Neighbourhood House at 0429 922 735 or email manager@birchipnh.com.au
Celebration
The Birchip P-12 School Art Show is more than just an art exhibition; it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and culture. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a weekend of inspiration, this year’s event promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.
For more information, please visit www.birchip.vic.au/art-show-2024 or contact Andrew Sayle at the Birchip P-12 School. The community looks forward to welcoming visitors from near and far to join in this celebration of art and local talent.