‘Circus of Colour’ chance for creativity

Dunedin youngsters Riley McPherson (left), 10, and Neva McPherson, 8, hold their entries for the...
Dunedin youngsters Riley McPherson (left), 10, and Neva McPherson, 8, hold their entries for the Circus of Colour drawing competition, being run by Otago Art Society as part of its Dunedin Fringe Festival exhibition event. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Fun-filled flamboyance, frivolity and flair is to the fore in the Otago Art Society’s creative contribution to this year’s Dunedin Fringe Festival — a "Circus of Colour" exhibition.

Renowned for its themed installations during previous Fringe Festivals, the Otago Art Society has chosen the circus theme to create an exhibition bursting with colour to bring a smile and a welcome escape from reality for visitors.

The "Circus of Colour" 2024 Fringe Festival exhibition will run from March 14-30 at the Otago Art Society galleries, first floor, Dunedin Railway Station.

Accompanying the artists’ exhibition, the Otago Daily Times gallery will be turned into a "big top" installation, where the whole family can enjoy an immersive experience, including imaginative depictions of characters and performing animals.

Within the installation there will be 70 portrait works on the exhibition theme of "a circus audience and performers" painted by artists on standard-sized colourful boards — all priced at $250. All exhibition works will also be for sale and the public can vote for their favourite work.

Artists with works in the exhibition are invited to an awards night for the exhibition, from 6pm on March 14, with attendees dressing in circus-themed costumes, and live music.

Children 12 and under can join in the creative fun by entering the kids circus drawing contest. Entry forms are available from the Otago Art Society, or can be downloaded at otagoartsociety.co.nz

Drawings will be displayed at the railway station and prizes will be awarded.