Entries are now open for the Ipswich Art Awards now regarded as a major regional art exhibition
The awards have developed into a premier event with a total of $10,000 in prize money split across six categories.
As in previous years the competition will run in conjunction with the Ipswich Festival from 11 April to 14 April.
Held annually since 2000, the 2019 award entries will be displayed at Fire Station 101 between 10am and 3pm daily.
Glen Smith is a volunteer with the annual awards and has been on the committee for the last six years.
“I’m also president of Arts Connect and the group is volunteering time to help man the art exhibition.
“There are five categories this year – painting, drawing, sculpture, print making and photography.
“The number of entries in previous years has been in the range of 200 to 250.
“Works are becoming more professional.
“A lot of people have used the art awards as a starting point for their art career so it has been very good for the community.”
Ipswich Art Awards volunteer and local artist Glen Smith with one of his works created for Flying Arts Alliance in 2018
Glen Smith said he was optimistic for a similar number of entries for the 2019 awards.
“Artists definitely want to continue to support this annual event.
“With the Ipswich Art Gallery involved I’d love to see it become a major art event, not just in Ipswich, but nationally.
“These art awards are very important to the local arts community and with council support it will continue to build in the future,” he said.
Artist can submit an entry by the closing date of 22 March.
Opening night on 11 April is a ticketed evening event and on sale now.
For full details on how to enter the awards or to purchase tickets for opening night please go the Ipswich Festival website.
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Good morning. Could you tell me what time and date I need to drop my art entry’s off . I think it’s this Sunday between 9 and 12pm. Please confirm. Chris