WOOLGOOLGA Art Gallery (WAG) held its 41st Annual Art Prize opening night on Friday 18 September 2026.
The ticketed event sold out well in advance, drawing an attendance of a hundred people.
The judges were owner/curators of Coldstream Gallery in Ulmarra, Marc Mclntyre and Steve Pickering, along with Service Leader Yarrila Arts and Museum (YAM) Coffs Harbour, Carrie Kibbler.
With the gallery packed with 100 attendees the winners were announced.
Jane Wilson placed first, second place went to Carol Clarkson and Katja Vilund was third.
“An amazing standard of work, a difficult choice,” Mr MacIntyre said of selecting the winners.
WAG’s Art Prize organisers shared applause for all the hanging works, declaring every artwork a winner in their opinion, and all artists and works deserving recognition.
“Some of the more ‘off the wall’ works certainly scream ‘look at me’,” WAG spokesperson Karen Thio told News Of The Area.
The Woolgoolga Art Gallery Printmakers collaborative artwork, called Interface, is one such piece.
“It is work that is part sculptural and part conceptual; illusion and eyeball twisting sums it up,” she said.
“Rachel Develin presents an artwork to get your head around; a glamorous and princess-inspiring crown made from tea bags.
“Carol Clarkson brings her creative genius to the fore with her pink flamingo Lego assemblage sculpture titled Busby Berkley Flamingos.
“These works and much more will inspire and confound you in all the best ways,” Ms Thio said.
The exhibition closes on 30 October.
Woolgoolga Art Gallery, now in its 54th year, has grown from humble beginnings to a powerhouse of creativity, overseen by a talented group of dedicated and committed volunteers.
Contributions range from performing daily desk duty to the executive and financial running of a well-oiled machine.
During its history WAG has benefitted from funding and sponsorship at government levels, and through local businesses and individuals.
“This is truly a community gallery, run by the people and their community – 41 years of the annual Art Prize just proves it,” Ms Thio said.
Woolgoolga Art Gallery is open seven days a week from 10am to 4pm and located at 73 Turon Parade, Woolgoolga
A range of courses and creative activities are on offer at the gallery.
By Andrea FERRARI
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