Hedland artists sketch local portraits

If you are a distinguished Hedland resident, be warned – lie low or else you might find yourself detained for hours at a time by an enthusiastic local artist.

That is because across town right now Hedland Arts Council (HARTZ) artists are busy sketching and sculpting prominent locals for entry into the upcoming HARTZibald portraiture competition.

The HARTZibald is the community art group’s take on the famous Archibald Prize, except each portrait must be created by a Hedland artist with a living Hedland resident as its subject.

HARTZ member Sangita Daniel said she painting Native Animal Rescue volunteer Rebekah Black at the same time as keeping an eye on creations by her fellow artists.

“I am working on a portrait, so are (artists like) Ian Gear, Ash Jeeloll, Howard Holder (and) hopefully many others,” she said.

“The Hartzibalds are lots of fun.”

Ms Daniel and her fellow artists were also set to face stiff competition this year from the next generation of creative talents with South Hedland Senior High School teacher Michelle Siciliano currently guiding her three art classes in their portrait works.

It is also not too late for artists keen to take part to get their entries in with competition information available at www.hartz.org.au.

Residents keen to see the finished artworks should pen April 29 into their diaries when the winner will be announced at a free exhibition held at the Matt Dann Theatre at 6.30pm.

Following the free exhibition, the Matt Dann will screen a “blockbuster movie” from 7.30pm with tickets ranging from $19-$25.