FRIDAY evening was an opportunity for south-west Victorian artists to display their unique skills to a sizeable crowd at the Glenthompson Art Show with a wide array of paintings covering many disciplines and subjects.

Event coordinator, Julie Reason was pleased how the exhibition was received at the Opening Gala at the Glenthompson Memorial Hall with Southern Grampians councillors, Greg McAdam and Mary-Anne Brown in attendance.

From 6.30pm, people streamed in and eventually every area was filled with people admiring the talent on display.

Later in the evening, judges, Sheran Andrew and Peter Coates announced their picks for awards in various categories, which included commendations.

The Young Artist award went to Isabella Compson for her painting ‘Dawn Mist over Lake Hamilton’, which Mr Coates was especially dazzled by.

“What can you say about a 13-year-old doing a picture like that?” he said.

“You’re a freak.”

In awarding the Best in Show, the prize went to Taylah Fenwick from Woodhouse, with her incredible fineliner-drawn entry, ‘The Hunt’.

Ms Andrew said the artwork was amazing and a clear standout that she and Mr Coates had “looked at … for a very long time.”

“When you get a chance, come and have a close look at this drawing that she’s done,” she said.

“It’s absolutely phenomenal.”

She especially pointed to the intricate detail with scale accuracy and praised Ms Fenwick for not just artistic ability but technical merit.

“It’s so interesting, and we just thought, it’s the best one here,” Ms Andrew said.

“We really had to give you that award, so congratulations.”

Ms Reason was extremely happy with the evening and the reaction from the subsequent exhibition over the long weekend.

“I thought the Friday was a wonderful success,” she said.

“I’ve had nothing but positive feedback, absolutely positive feedback and they’re hoping that I continue doing this every year.”