More than 120 people enjoyed the diverse artworks on display at the recent Blue Fringe Art Awards.
Held at Wentworth Falls from October 19-22, the exhibition showcases the creativity of people with a lived experience of a mental health issue.
Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman, State Member for Blue Mountains Trish Doyle, Blue Mountains mayor Mark Greehhill and Ward 2 Cr Romola Hollywood presented prizes to the winners in art/sculpture, textiles and photography.
The prize for most outstanding artwork went to Yvonne Larkins for her photograph, Wash Away the Day. The image also took highly commended in the photography section.
Other winners include Sarah-Jane Staszak, first place in photography and winner of the Packers’ Prize.
Textiles saw Nell Brey receive first place for free-form crochet or “scrumble” and an intricate piece with folded paper by Karen Stevenson was awarded highly commended.
Art/sculpture first place went to Cheryl Amin for her complex pencil drawings of fantasy worlds. Highly commended was awarded to Lee Mitchell for Advice to My Younger Sane Self, an imaginative use of building blocks to convey a profound message.
The Blue Fringe Committee acknowledged the sponsorship and support given by Bendigo Bank, Richards Financial Services, Mountain High Pies, Hazelbrook General Practice, Botanical Art, Katoomba Tyre Service, Wentworth Falls TAFE Community Services students, Blue Mountains City Council and Penrith City Council.
In its 24th year, Blue Fringe originated with a family wishing to honor the role art had played in their daughter’s life.
