*Our Annual Exhibition – 19-21 June 2026

Judge’s Notes – Regina Hona PSVA-MP, AGRAF

BEST IN SHOW

Title: Pathway to Squeaky Beach (Oil)
Artist: Maureen Harris Smith
A delightful impressionist subject that shows that large isn’t always better. The artist, in her composition, has masterfully used light, contrast, a landscape depth, cohesive colours and skilful soft edges that lead the eye to the focal point and around the painting. The figures in the foreground are so subtle yet clearly show an adult carrying a child with a toddler beside them. The minimal use of small splatter further enhances the style used by the artist. CONGRATULATIONS on an outstanding painting Maureen.

BEST OIL/ACRYLIC (1st)

Title: Silouettes (Oil)
Artist: Jan Crockett
The strong contrasting energy and bold colourful strokes in this painting are what draw you in and makes it stand out. There is a wonderful use of complimentary colours; clean brush strokes; well-formed figures and a bit of mystery when exploring its depths. Well done Jan.

BEST OIL/ACRYLIC (2nd)

Title: Harvest Basket 3 (Acrylic)
Artist: Bronwyn Elmore
In this subject, what looks like intricate detail has been beautifully delineated through simplified shapes, colour, line and tone. The diagonal foreground lines lead our eyes to explore what’s in the basket, but at the same time, gives a strong contrast and balance to the composition. An engaging subject. Congratulations Bronwyn.

BEST WATERCOLOUR/GOUACHE (1st)

Title: Blue Boa (WC & Pencil)
Artist: Bev McVilly
A delightful and beautifully composed subject. The skill of the artist shows through in all the subtle tonal and colour nuances that bring out the character of this young girl. The lost and found edges help to maintain our focus on her cheeky face. Congratulations on a masterful painting.

BEST WATERCOLOUR/GOUACHE (2nd)

Title: Self Portrait (Watercolour)
Artist: Ramnath Iyer
Another skilfully painted subject offering the viewer much to explore throughout. There is an accurate use of perspective; strong tonal variation and form to bring the figure forward, and a cohesive use of colour throughout. Well done, Ramnath.

BEST DRAWING OR OTHER MEDIUM (1st)

Title: Flowering Gum (Pastel)
Artist: Dianne Eldin
Every part of this painting contributes cohesively to the effectiveness and depth of the work. It has good visual perspective and composition that uses the flower groupings and linear branches to direct our eyes, after first landing on the bright flowering centre of interest. A skilful handling of soft pastel. Under better light this
painting will delight even more. Well done, Dianne!

BEST DRAWING OR OTHER MEDIUM (2nd)

Title: Nature Unbounded 31 (Acrylic and Ink)
Artist: Pratibha Madan
Here we are shown a very skilful and dynamic use of line, shape and form. Unencumbered by a background it allowed the artist to meticulously use line and abstract shapes cleverly arranged to portray muscle and movement in the leopard’s body. A unique style and subject. Congratulations Pratibha.