THE annual Ipswich Art Awards continues to showcase the amazing work of artists in our region.
Opening night Friday November 1 was a sellout as locals and visitors celebrated the talents of all artists who entered this year.
The first floor of council’s administration building in Nichoals Street has been transformed for the awards with some 465 entries. It would have been a big job to install all the works. Council staff were supported by volunteers from local groups including Artsconnect, Ipswich Art Society and Ipswich Arts Advisory Group.
A total of 320 artists contributed to the eight categories.
Judges this year were Madeline Brewer from the Condensery Gallery at Toogoolawah and renowned Ipswich artist Lincoln Austin.
Both had their work cut out with such a high standard across all categories. It was reported they spent an exhausting 12 hours considering who should be awarded highly commended in each category, the category winners and best of show.
Ipswich City Council and all councillors must also be congratulated for their commitment and on-going support of the visual arts.
Check out the exhibition at 1 Nicholas Street until this Saturday between 10am and 4pm.
And another thing: Synonymous with Ipswich for decades has been the familiar sight of lappers, sometimes in conflict with the law and residents. It’s still a cultural activity loved by enthusiasts and that was evident last Saturday night after being promoted by Ipswich Lapz Facebook page.
I’m guessing the number of spectators lining Limestone and Brisbane streets numbered in the thousands.
Local hospitality venues welcomed the crowds with vacant tables hard to find.
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