The Townsville Art Society is opening the 66th Townsville Art Society Awards at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery this week.
The celebrated awards exhibition has been shown annually since 1955 and showcases the high calibre of artistic talent in Townsville.
Community and Cultural Development Committee chairperson Ann-Maree Greaney said the awards were highly anticipated by society members and the wider community each year.
"There is a long history behind the Townsville Art Society Awards, which debuted 66 years ago in 1955. Since then, they've grown to include seven major categories which are fiercely contested each year," Cr Greaney said.
"The awards capture the essence of what it is to be an artist in North Queensland, featuring the unique flavour of life in the tropics and reflecting on our laid-back way of life.
"This year's awards at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery will be no different, with more than 100 paintings, drawings and sculptures on display for the community to enjoy visiting for free."
Townsville Art Society president Patrick Lowth said preparations for each year's exhibition started 12 months in advance.
"Behind the scenes, there's a lot of work. It's a hard effort, so it's rewarding to see the artworks go up," Mr Lowth said.
"There's a variety of work, all different levels of skills from beginners to really competent artists. They're all North Queensland artists, from Ingham to Ayr and of course from Townsville.
"As a beginner (artist), to see their work on a wall in a professional gallery, it gives them a lift."
Cr Greaney said the society had come a long way since its first awards exhibition in 1955.
"The first exhibition was called As We See It, back when the society was called The Townsville Art Group. We have those first group members to thank for helping make the Townsville Art Society what it is today, and for contributing so tirelessly towards the city's artistic footprint," she said.
"I'm looking forward to seeing the full exhibition when it opens this Friday."
The 66th Townsville Art Society Awards exhibition opens this Friday at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery and runs until 13 February 2022. Entry is free.
