Local artist Stacey Bennett returned home a winner from the recent Yarram Chalk Art Festival held in Victoria over the weekend 23-24 February 2024.

Bennett, a skilled pastel and chalk artist renowned for her bold portraits and wildlife artworks, took home the prestigious People’s Choice Award for her piece titled “Jewel of the Forest”.

The festival, organised by The Gumboot Collective since 2021 under the leadership of Matt Langdon, saw 15 talented artists from across Australia and internationally, including Canada, Japan, and Colombia.

The artists gathered to express their interpretations of the theme “Forest” through vibrant chalk creations throughout the main street of Yarram on the weekend.

The annual festival provides artists designated areas to unleash their creativity and showcase their talents. The event drew large crowds to the streets of Yarram, with visitors coming to admire the artwork, engage with the artists and enjoy the atmosphere of the day.

Stacey Bennett's final piece on angle Jewel of the Forest - photography by Stacey Bennett
Stacey Bennett’s final piece on angle Jewel of the Forest – photography by Stacey Bennett

This was Bennett’s first foray into the world of chalk festivals, and the experience proved to be both enriching and rewarding.

“I was definitely nervous, but also incredibly excited to be surrounded by such a diverse group of talented artists,” said Ms Bennett.

“Their finished pieces were absolutely breathtaking, and winning the People’s Choice Award came as a wonderful surprise, especially considering it was my first attempt. This is a huge confidence boost and motivates me to keep pushing my creative boundaries.”

Ms Bennett’s attendance at the Yarram Chalk Art Festival was funded through the Regional Arts Development Fund which is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Logan City Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

This program plays a vital role in supporting and promoting the artistic endeavours of local talents, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of regional Queensland.

Stacey Bennett creating her chalk art - photography by Richard Scott Photography
Stacey Bennett creating her chalk art – photography by Richard Scott Photography

“The beauty with chalk is that it is temporary so there are not the usual limitations with a permanent piece of public art,” said Ms Bennett.

“It encourages the community to come out and see it before the elements takes it away.”

Ms Bennett expressed her hope for similar events to be held closer to home, especially around Logan in the future.

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