The streets of Healesville and Yarra Glen are set to burst with color and conversation this month as the entries for this year's Not the Archies community portrait prize are unveiled. This vibrant event, organized by the Yarra Ranges Council, showcases nearly 300 portraits of local residents, painted by their fellow community members. The initiative, which began last year to coincide with the Archibald Prize exhibition at the Tarrawarra Museum, has quickly become a beloved tradition.
The Not the Archies competition has attracted almost 300 entries, all created by residents of the Yarra Ranges. This initiative was launched by the Yarra Ranges Council to celebrate the prestigious Archibald Prize exhibition at the Tarrawarra Museum. The overwhelming success of the project last year led to its continuation, providing a platform for local artists to engage with the spirit of the Archibald Prize by honoring notable local figures through portraiture.
The competition offers a unique opportunity for the community to celebrate its members, regardless of their artistic background. Participants are encouraged to submit portraits along with a brief message explaining why they believe their subject is remarkable. This year's entries feature a diverse array of local personalities, including artists, community activists, sports coaches, builders, musicians, and farmers.
The portraits will be displayed in shop windows throughout Yarra Glen and Healesville from this Saturday until July 8. A panel of judges has selected 41 finalists, and the winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in Healesville on June 15.
One notable participant is Bev Hardidge, a childcare worker from Hoddles Creek, who has submitted a portrait of her husband, Graeme. The couple moved to the area nine months ago, although Graeme has been working in the Yarra Ranges for three years. Bev's portrait, which took between 12 and 14 hours to complete over three sessions, marks her first foray into both portrait painting and art competitions.
Bev expressed her satisfaction with the final result, noting that Graeme is also pleased, albeit a bit embarrassed. She appreciates the inclusive nature of Not the Archies, stating, "I think Not the Archies is great as it allows all different types of people to enter. It doesn't matter if they are artists or not artists."
The Not the Archies community portrait prize is more than just an art competition; it is a celebration of local talent and community spirit. By providing a platform for residents to honor their peers through portraiture, the Yarra Ranges Council has created an event that brings people together and highlights the unique stories of the region. As the portraits adorn the streets of Healesville and Yarra Glen, they serve as a testament to the creativity and camaraderie that define the Yarra Ranges community.
For more information on the impact of arts and cultural events on local economies, visit the Australia Council for the Arts.
For details on the Archibald Prize and its significance, check out the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
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