Rotary Art Show prize will honour Murray Bridge arts mentor Jean Sims
A new annual prize for 2D artworks will bear the name of a beloved local.
The Rotary Art Show is excited to announce the Jean Sims prize for 2D artworks at the forthcoming art show.
The prize of $1000 will celebrate and commemorate the significant part Jean played in the commencement of the Murray Bridge Art Show.
The Antell Family Trust will sponsor the prize, thanks to Sue Antell, Jean Sims’ daughter.
For many years, Jean Sims was a leader in fostering art in the community.
In addition to being very creative herself, she was extremely influential as a teacher and mentor of local artists.
She was also a regular exhibitor in the show, and no doubt her work still features on the walls of many homes.
Murray Bridge Regional Gallery had already recognised Ms Sims’ leadership by naming one of the gallery spaces in her memory.
Many obstacles emerged as the Murray Bridge and Mobilong Rotary Clubs worked towards an exhibition to showcase the work of regional artists.
Ms Sims’ network within the wider art community was crucial in mounting the first show.
The first Murray Bridge Rotary Art Show was eventually launched in 1987.
At that time, no immediate site was available, so Rotarians installed panels downstairs at the then-rowing club.
Subsequently, the art show moved to the town hall, the local government centre and then to the ultimate location, Murray Bridge Regional Gallery.
Some believe that the Rotary Art Show played a significant part in the emergence of the superb facility now in our city.
For a number of years, this show has recognised a founding leader of the show, Andrew Hay, through the Andrew Hay Memorial Photography Prize.
The Jean Sims prize will almost certainly become prestigious and stimulate entries for the coming show, opening in April.
- Enter the art show: $20 at www.trybooking.com.
- More information: www.murraybridgeartshow.com.au.
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