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STRATHBOGIE Shire's travelling compact art gallery ARTBOX has entered its second month in Euroa by hosting the works of a triumvirate of local artists, each with their own unique style.
'The Euroa Three' opened at the converted shipping container in Binney Street on Sunday afternoon at a reception attended by over 50 people, some of whom had travelled from Adelaide and Tasmania for the event.
The Euroa Three showcases the figurative works of Deb Cavanagh (with acrylic), Anna Mackrell (oil), and Bruce Hargrave (watercolour).
The exhibition gives a unique opportunity to experience the three distinct media offering a different perspective on the beauty of the local area.
Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy said locals and visitors could immerse themselves in the artistic interpretations of stunning local landscapes.
"Each artist brings a unique perspective and medium, making this exhibition a truly engaging experience," Cr Ewart-Kennedy said.
"We are delighted to support and showcase such remarkable local talent."
Strathbogie-raised and internationally-trained Anna Mackrell produces expressive oil paintings and drawings that capture the essence of the region’s landscapes and flora.
Deb Cavanagh has brought her experiences travelling in northern and central Australia to focus on the transitions of Taungurung Country and Melbourne.
Her works depict local landscapes, birds, botanicals, and even much-loved pets.
“There's really no need to venture far; everything unfolds right on my doorstep,” Ms Cavanagh said.
Watercolourist Bruce Hargrave said he had an appreciation for the 'spontaneity' of watercolour, in which he captures the ever-changing beauty of Euroa and Melbourne’s Albert Park.
"Watercolour is always a challenge to get it to work, and you are not always happy with the outcome, not always," Mr Hargrave said.
"In fact you can sometimes see some of my (rejected) ones on the back.
“But it is the excitement of watercolour which I love."
Mr Hargrave praised the work of his co-exhibitors.
"It's great to be in the company of Deb and Anna; they are both very skilled and committed painters I think."
He also thanked the generosity of the ARTBOX site's benefactor.
"It is fantastic of Bill Stubbs to make this block of land available for the gallery," he said.
"The community's use of it obviously shows a very wonderful and generous spirit of him.
"The shire has taken this much further by moving the ARTBOX everywhere, which gives everybody the opportunity of seeing nice things."
Local muralist and soon-to-be artist-in-residence at a North Carolina railway museum Tim Bowtell opened the exhibition.
Mr Bowtell is known for his expertise in designing and painting historical and cultural murals on silos statewide.
Mr Hargrave said Mr Bowtell was a modern-day Michelangelo.
"But he doesn't lie on his back all day painting the Sistine Chapel," Mr Hargrave said.
"He's up on a cherry picker in the middle of winter with a spray can - we were really lucky to get Tim to come over."
At least one of the artists will be in attendance each day during April, providing visitors with an opportunity to engage with the creative minds behind the works.
The ARTBOX will remain in Euroa until the start of June before moving further around Strathbogie Shire, with a new artist to exhibit for the month of May.





