Yarra Valley Art Show.

29 Apr

Submitting work to my first art show felt equal parts exciting and terrifying. Until now, my paintings had lived in my studio, shared quietly with family, friends. Sending them out into the world - to be viewed and judged publicly - felt like a significant step as an emerging artist.

Earlier this month, I submitted a few works to the Yarra Valley Art Show, held at The Farm in Warrandtye South from 22–26 April. Even pressing the “submit” button came with nerves and self-doubt. I questioned whether my work was good enough, resolved enough, or worthy of exhibition alongside more experienced artists.

Receiving the acceptance email was a genuine thrill. It brought a sense of validation, but more importantly, encouragement to keep going. Seeing my paintings professionally displayed among such a diverse collection of work was both inspiring and motivating. The atmosphere of the exhibition, surrounded by creativity, conversation, and community, reminded me why art matters.

This first exhibition experience has given me confidence to continue putting my work forward and now having an online presence. It reinforced that growth only happens by taking risks, even uncomfortable ones.

Felicity Hollingbery

Yarra Valley Art Show.

Submitting work to my first art show felt equal parts exciting and terrifying. Until now, my paintings had lived in my studio, shared quietly with family, friends. Sending them out into the world - to be viewed and judged publicly - felt like a significant step as an emerging artist.

My space.