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Hastings Valley Fine Art Association members are preparing for the 12th annual Mid North Coast Summer Showcase.
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The art exhibition and sale is at Laurieton United Services Club from December 29 until January 5.
The works are from the pool of talented local artists, including Port Macquarie’s Barbara Cannon.
Mrs Cannon, who sketched during her school and early adult years, became more interested in art after her retirement.
She has exhibited works at the showcase each year since joining in 2006.
“The attraction for me was that I had always loved art from an early age and enjoyed classes during my school year,” she said.
“But I never did much with it, mainly because work took over. I would try to keep my hand in every now and then, but life just got too busy.”
After retiring, Mrs Cannon said she attended a water colour class in Wauchope with renowned artist Jan Farrell.
“Jan encouraged me to join the association and it has gone along from there,” she said. “Since joining, every single person (in the association) has always been very friendly and helpful.
“Despite my work be very amateurish, it didn’t matter if it was a artist who had sold many works right down to the beginners, they would all help you.
It’s a great group to belong too, there are regular tutorials and everyone is supportive.
- Barbara Cannon
“It’s a great group to belong too, there are regular tutorials and everyone is supportive.
“Certainly I would not be able to reach my potential without the support of the association and its members.”
Mrs Cannon describes her work as realistic.
While contributing to the exhibition is a great felling, she said the real thrill is when someone purchases one of her works.
“The thought that someone wants to part with their money for your work is a real bonus, along with a judge saying something nice about your work,” she added.
The association says works on exhibition at the showcase and at its home base overlook Oxley Beach are for sale.
“And with Christmas just around the corner, we would encourage residents to drop into the showcase or our headquarters to select a locally produce art piece as a gift,” a spokesperson said.
The Mid North Coast Summer Showcase is from December 29 until January 5, 10am until 4pm daily at the Laurieton United Services Club.