The Civic Centre will soon be transformed into an art lovers’ paradise as the masterpieces begin to arrive on Tuesday, July 18. With 650 entries expected, those responsible for hanging the works have some hard days ahead of them. But all the hard work will be well worth it.

This year marks the 35th annual Coal and Allied Singleton Art Prize, an admirable achievement for the event organisers, the Singleton community and all the contributing artists.

 “We are fortunate to have the experience of our volunteers who know how to get this job done and done well,” Rotary on Hunter member and event coordinator, Mr Levick said.

The exhibition will officially open at 6pm on Friday, July 21 with $25 tickets available at the door. These tickets include a free catalogue, finger food, live entertainment and complimentary wine to kick-start the celebrations.

The winners will be announced and crowned at 7:45pm, with artworks available for purchase once the presentation has concluded.

Following the opening ceremony the exhibition is open daily from 10am to 6pm until July 25, with a $2 entry fee.

Proceeds from the Art Prize are returned to the local community by way of community grants that will be handed out on the official opening.

There is also an artist’s workshop being held at Sacred Spaces on July 22 and 23, with master artists Joe and Leslie Penn. For more information regarding the workshops, please contact Wendy Mason-Jones on 0407010699 for details.​