Arts Gunnedah exhibition a roaring success

More than 100 people gathered at the Gunnedah Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery to cast their eyes over more than 300 entries, which were judged by Arts North West's Caroline Downer and artist Yvonne Overton.

Stephanie Darley took out the grand champion art prize for her sculpture Global and Carol Forster was named grand champion in ceramics for a three-piece tea set.

"I thought it was a very successful exhibition and ... despite the drought and difficult circumstances, Arts Gunnedah has enjoyed good sales at this year's exhibition, far surpassing previous years," Arts Gunnedah's Shirley Urquhart said.

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The exhibition drew entries from the local region, Queensland, inter-state, the Sydney metropolitan area and the Hunter Valley.

"I think it was a very eclectic mix," Mrs Urquhart said.

"The sculpture section was very strong this year."

Former Gunnedah residents Yvette and Peter Hugill were among those who entered art works, and caught up with old friends at the opening.

Mrs Urquhart said there had been plenty of foot traffic at the gallery, particularly during AgQuip.

"A steady stream of visitors has enjoyed the exhibition since it opened," she said.

The exhibition was opened by Gunnedah woman, The Hon Sarah Mitchell MLC. Gunnedah Conservatorium's Joel Pickett and Dominic Goodwin-Hauck entertained the crowd.