Tea Gardens artists group Galleries in the Gardens (GIG) kicked off the cold season with their Sixth Annual ‘Winter Warmers’ exhibition at the Tea Gardens Hotel on Friday night.

The theme of this year’s exhibition is ‘Reflections’ with artists encouraged to base their various mediums around this.

A variety of work including paintings, sculpture, photography and jewellery was on display over the long weekend at the Hotel and most was available for sale to the public.

President of GIG Trevor Cook spoke highly about the dedication of the local artists and their strong ties to the community.

“Tonight’s success shows the strength of art in our community and how art and community can come together as one.”

“I would like to thank Kate Washington, Len Roberts and Rex Newell for giving up their time to be here and Rob and Lee Anderson once more for the wonderful venue.”

State member Kate Washington once more showed her support for the area driving directly from Parliament to be on hand and officially open the exhibition.

“It’s wonderful to visit again and to see the culture of the area expressed in art.

“This community is rich in culture and I thank you for your warm invitation,” Kate said.

There was a great response to the opening with a large crowd attending throughout the evening with several works selling.

Nationally renowned artist Rex Newell was invited and judged a competition to choose the best works fitting the theme of the exhibition.

Winner overall was Dallas Murphy for her poetry based painting ‘Reflections of a life well lived’.

Congratulations Dallas and to runners up Jan Johnson Furness and Cheryl Cook.