may 10 - 16 | 2017
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The art of community By KYLIE WILSON
ARTISTIC INFLUENCE:
Local artists Jim van Geet and Anita Laurence are among those who have had a long term involvement with the King Valley Art Show. PHOTO: Marc Bongers
GARDENING WITH
DEBBI
RSPCA
MOVIE
FIZZ
SNATCHED
WITH
WINE TALK WITH
ANITA
AFTER humble beginnings 20 years ago, the King Valley Art Show has grown from a grassroots art exhibition to a hugely popular celebration of art with a high profile. And it has touched the lives of all involved. This year’s judge, Myrtleford artist Jim van Geet, is among those who have been involved in the show since its beginning, and said it was essential ingredient in the “appreciation of arts and culture in the North East region”. He said he was passionate about the role of art in society, adding that it expresses humanity and feeds the soul. “Art is what makes us as a society,” Jim said, happy to have seen the show grow over the years. “You start things, you don’t know how far they’ll go. “It’s become an extremely professional and well-oiled machine.” King Valley artist and current art show committee president, Anita Laurence, became involved in the show in the year 2000 by entering her art, and her involvement has grown from there. “Getting involved in the community is what it is about,” she said. “We get enjoyment out of giving other artists opportunities to enter their work. “The event brings art to our doorstep.” Anita said she was grateful for all the friendships she had made through the show over the years, as well as for the support shown to the show by community members and local businesses. “It is held in high esteem by lots of people,” she said. For Natalie Pizzini, who was involved with the King Valley Tourism Association at the time of the inception of the event, the show is a special part of her life. continued page |
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