Mr Kelly was acclaimed for his published books on the Eucalypts of Australia, as well as his watercolours of wildflowers and fungi. Today his paintings are featured in the Australian passport and he is fondly remembered by many people, including the members of the art group named in his honour.

Since its establishment, the focus of the Stan Kelly Art Group has broadened as new members have brought new genres, techniques and individual passions to the group.

You will have a chance to learn more about the art group with a new exhibition opening this Friday at the Ararat Regional Art Gallery. 'Decades of Dedication' showcases the work of individual members, several who have been recognised with art show awards.

The exhibition features works in watercolours, acrylics, oil, pastel, graphite and mixed media representing many different technical and formal approaches and a great variety of subject matter. The art group plays an important role in the community by welcoming both experienced and novice artists and providing an important forum for artistic development and expression.

The group meets at the Art Craft Workshops at the rear of the Ararat Town Hall every Wednesday. Sessions are self-directed, but support and encouragement from peers is always available. From time to time workshops with visiting artists are presented, too.

'Decades of Dedication' continues at the Ararat Regional Art Gallery until August 24 2015.

The Ararat Performing Arts Centre and Ararat Regional Art Gallery have a number of events planned over coming weeks. These include ‘There are no words’ by Michelle Hamer,  and ‘Writhe’ by Laura Woodward, developed specifically for Ararat, featuring dozens of handmade mechanical components. Two plays will also be staged at APAC, including Drowning in Veronica Lake and Australia Day.

Anthony Camm

Director

Ararat Art Gallery