McGregor artist wins fellowship

The sky is the limit for professional artist, Christine Porter, who has been named 2006 McGregor Art Fellow.

The Lismore based artist beat a strong field of candidates to win the award, which will enable her to spend six weeks studying at Newcastle-under-Lyme College in the United Kingdom.

A water colourist, print maker and painter, Christine is well known for her portrayal of rural Queensland, and in particular her paintings of sheep properties in the border and Barcaldine districts.

Christine was delighted to receive the award and plans to travel to the United Kingdom in 2007.

"I am thrilled to receive this fellowship. Its exciting to think what could come from it."

Christine has been returning the McGregor Summer School since 1986, where she continues to develop skills, and learn from other talented people.

"Each year, especially in the beginning I got to meet with other regional artists and work with professionals. Teachers such as Basil Hall, Wim de Vos and Fred Bates have had a profound affect on me as a painter and printmaker. In fact it could be said that I am the artist that I am now as a result of the Summer Schools I have attended," Christine said.

The fellowship was established in 1999 and is aimed at emerging artists who demonstrate talent and commitment to self-development. In particular, judges look at the potential for the artist's career to be enhanced by exposure to an intensive period in an international setting.

Students and Tutors taking part in the 38th McGregor Summer School will showcase their work during an open day on Saturday, 14 January.

Media Contact: Connie-Louise Alexander +61 7 4631 1628