Echoes of Nature, by two Broken River Painters artists, Narelle Leaf and Marion Wroe, is on display throughout November.
Both Narelle and Marion have exhibited in many local art shows, winning awards and selling their work.
Narelle presents an enchanting collection of watercolour washes and nature studies.
Narelle hails from Melbourne, and moved to Benalla to live and work in 1997.
Her passion for painting developed after she began learning folk art with her sister Coral. Her love of botanical art was inspired by meeting local expert Margaret Zaal.
Recently, she has also taken lessons with local artist Louise Carlisle, further honing her skills in watercolour.
Marion showcases a collection of small framed acrylic paintings, primarily featuring charming cottages and vibrant flowers.
After the passing of her husband of 52 years, Marion joined the Broken River Painters, finding solace in painting — a hobby he had always encouraged.
Informed by a lifelong love of art and countless gallery visits, Marion has found her own painting journey to be both therapeutic and joyful.
She is inspired by various influences, including art deco, North Queensland housing styles, Vogue magazine and Clarice Cliff pottery.
Benalla Art Gallery director Eric Nash said the exhibition presented two strong bodies of work by highly regarded members of the Broken River Painters.
“While stylistically distinct, the works by each artist each share a common passion for nature and landscape,” he said.
The Broken River Painters is a long-established art group in Benalla that meets every Wednesday, except between Christmas and new year.
Members use a wide variety of media, including graphite, charcoal, watercolour, acrylics, oils, coloured pencils and pastels.
Their studio is in BARC Hut 11 at the Benalla Airport and there are members in attendance on most weekdays.
For more information and pricing, visit brokenriverpainters.weebly.com
All works in the gallery shop are available for purchase from Benalla Art Gallery, or by calling 5760 2619 or emailing gallery@benalla.vic.gov.au
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