Holiday art display currently at town hall

Victorian portrait artist Pete Conroy aims for a foot in each camp when he exaggerates the features of his subjects onto canvas — his aim to create a realistic and cartoon-like translation of the individual — several examples of his work are now on display at Kyabram’s Town Hall Gallery.

A finalist in the 2022 Art Lovers Australia Prize, the UK educated artist has captured the attention of the art loving world, having recovered from a nasty surfing accident where he broke his neck and was left a high functioning quadriplegic.

That life changing incident gave him the motivation to pursue his art career vigorously and the result is a “series of classically painted portraits with a twist of something else”.

His major focus remains the human figure, sometimes with a political focus to show his disdain for the decision makers of society’s law makers.

Four gallery spaces featuring not only the work of Mr Conroy, but a metal artwork exhibition, the work of quilter Linda Steele and the Rathbone Collection continue to be on display at the town hall in Allan St, Kyabram.

Ms Steele and the Waverley Quilters are celebrated worldwide for their work, with Ms Steele having won awards in Australia and the United States.

She won Best Show at the Victorian Quilters Showcase in 2009-10 and Best of Australia in the World Quilt Show in 2009. She has also exhibited in France and China.

Her decision to make quilts for art rather than as bed covers was influenced heavily by a passion for nature.

Kyabram Town Hall Gallery is open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday, for more information phone 5852 1546 or 0490 371641.