The fourth annual Forsythes “Collectors Care” Art Exhibition has been hailed as the biggest and best yet. More than 1000 visitors frequented the exhibition over the 10 day period to view a staggering selection of 196 works from 88 of the Hunter’s best artists!

To date 85 of those works have been purchased, with commissions from their sale contributing to approximately $24,500 raised in aid of Samaritans, an increase of almost $10,000 on last years efforts.

All monies raised from the exhibition will go towards the setup of Hunter Headspace which will provide a one stop shop for young people to access a range of services including health, education, drug and alcohol, work and mental health.

CEO of Forsythes, major sponsor of the exhibition, Mr Paul Hankinson said, "It’s great to help Samaritans continue their valuable work supporting people in need in our local community".

This year’s acquisition award was won by Vera Zulumovski for her untitled work made from unique layers of embossing. Vera’s work is nationally collected by major galleries and will now be part of Forsythes corporate art collection.

The exhibition which coincided with the first anniversary of the 2007 June long weekend floods featured many artworks that drew inspiration from the storms and the now infamous Pasha Bulker which was stranded precariously on Nobbys Beach.

A huge hit with visitors this year were the Artists in Residence; painter Tim Burns and sculptor Gareth Graham; who relished the opportunity to provide insight into the processes and inspirations that mould their works.

Also successful was the introduction of the Art Appraisal Afternoon. Local art expert Gael Davies formerly of Anne von Bertouch Gallery was on-sight to appraise pieces from visitor’s personal collections. One visitor was overjoyed to have their ink drawing by well known collected artist and former Novocastrian Mathew Percival appraised and found to be worth in the vicinity of $8000 - $10,000!

"I’m still in awe of the submissions this year," said Fundraising Manager at Samaritans, Libby Rodgers-McPhee who was kept very busy over the 10 days. "The number and quality of art works was just amazing and the artists have been very generous! I believe this has been the best Forsythes Collectors Care Art Exhibition…so far!"

For further information please contact Samaritans Fundraising Manager, Libby Rodgers-McPhee on 02 4960 7100.

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