About 120 people flocked to the Arts Gunnedah event in the Bicentennial Creative Arts Centre.

The art grand champion prize was won by Jo McCalman with her still life “Double Delight”, and the ceramics grand champion prize was received by Carol Forster for her hand-built pots, “Chiaroscuro” (four pieces).

Arts Gunnedah member, Shirley Urquhart, said it was a “fabulous” evening, with entertainment provided by Gunnedah Conservatorium and catering by Caroline Anderson.

“It had a really good vibe,” Ms Urquhart said.

“I think it had a really good feeling about it.”

The judges Barbara Dolahenty (ceramics) and Rowen Matthews (art) were unable to attend the opening, visiting Gunnedah the day before to judge the works.

“[Rowen] was blown away by our gallery and our facility,” Ms Urquhart said.

“He thought the facility was just fabulous and he thoroughly enjoyed his job of judging the artworks too.​”

Mr Matthews recorded many comments about the art works, particularly “Double Delight”, which he said was “outstanding”.

“This deceptively simple painting has been delicately observed with minimal and thoughtful understatement,” he said.

“This is a delightfully sensitive study of flowers.”

Namoi Valley Independent’s Marie Low saw success at the exhibition, placing first in the drawing category with “Dance”. Mr Matthews said it was a “flowing serpentine drawing”.

“The bold composition works due to the cool, dark green shadows balancing the warm skin tones,” he said.

Among locals who also placed were Tony Blake, Fonda Rowland, Elizabeth Emmerson, Shirley Urquhart, Eileen Mair and Anne Pickett.

Votes are needed to determine the people’s choice award, so residents are encouraged to visit the gallery to fill out a card before September 3.