‘I don’t just paint like a photo... I paint what I love’.

Luke Baker, with parents Carolyn and Clint.

Young Artist Winner: Luke Baker, Little Bay, acrylic on canvas, 76cm x 51cm. $875

Highly Commended: Anne de Nooijer, A Passionate Sadness, hand dyed cotton, 51x76xcm. $1500

Highly Commended: Zen Steep, Offshore, still life photography, 36 x 43cm. SOLD

Best in Show, Emerging Artist: Norma Flint, Banksia, acrylic on canvas, 140cm x 140cm. SOLD

People's Choice: Veronica Pollock, Tell Us Another Story, acrylic over charcoal on wood, 68cm x 96cm. $750

The Young & Emerging Artists Exhibition at Luminance Gallery in Port Macquarie was a winning combination of Mid North Coast talent, supported by local business and community.

I’d like to acknowledge the artists, visitors, donors, art buyers and judges who made this event worthwhile in every way.

To the 23 regional artists shortlisted, and the 30 other regional artists who submitted entries: thanks for your creative energy.

To the community of people who visited: your presence, your voting, and your purchases are deeply appreciated.

Local business donated prizes: here’s looking at you Vivianne Hazenveld; Alice’s Art, Craft and Paper Supplies; and The Seed Art School.

Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association, headspace, Port Macquarie Hastings Council and Arts Mid North Coast helped spread the word.

Artists Wendy Stokes and Stephen Killick gave their time and expertise to choose the outstanding artworks. Wendy and Stephen also gave this exhibition heft and perspective.

Luke Baker won the judges’ choice in the young artist category; Norma Flint won the emerging artist category. As well as sharing the prize pool, Luke and Norma won invitations to exhibit again at Luminance.

People’s Choice winner Veronika Pollock wooed audiences with her painting of an old Austin truck; beautiful works by Anne de Nooijer and Zen Steep were Highly Commended.

Finally, from a story Port Macquarie News published about the impact of this exhibition:

“Judges Wendy Stokes and Stephen Killick praised Luke Baker’s piece, Little Bay, for its commitment to a moment in time.

“For Luke, the recognition is not just an accolade - it’s fuel.

”’It’s really encouraging, and it’s helping me continue in my art journey,’ he said.

“What stood out to the judges - and to gallery visitors - was the emotive quality of Luke’s work.

“‘I don’t just paint like a photo... I paint what I love,” he said.

“When asked what advice he’d give to other emerging creatives, Luke didn’t hesitate.

“Just keep drawing, and do what you’re passionate about.”