The exhibition opened on Saturday night at the Stables, to a large crowd of artists and art lovers.

Judge Prue Royle, founder of the International School of Colour and Design, was impressed with the numbers in attendance and the variety of work on display.

As she presented the awards, Ms Royle encouraged the artists to talk about the process of creating their work, and their exploration and interpretation of the local theme.

Arts Council vice-president Lee Paine said organisers were pleased with the high numbers and standard of the contributions in all categories.

She gave a special mention to Ross Kurtz for the loan of a row of corrugated iron stands, which provided a background for the display of the photographic section which was unobtrusive but had plenty of character.

The exhibition will be open daily at the Stables until August 24, between 10am and 4pm.