Local artist wins 2nd and 3rd place at EKKA

MEDIA RELEASE 25 August 2010

Local artist wins 2nd and 3rd place at EKKA
South Australian mouth painting artist Glenn Barnett has been awarded 2nd and 3rd prize for his paintings 'Derelict Farmhouse' and 'Four Wheel Drive Track' at this year's Royal Queensland Show (EKKA). The show ran during August 2010 at the RNA showgrounds in Brisbane.

The EKKA which is held annually features the work of fellow Australian and New Zealand MFPA members, with a category in the art exhibition exclusive to them.

Glenn entered a number of paintings into the EKKA art competition this year.

"My painting 'Derelict Farmhouse' was based on a photo I took two years ago on a trip to the northern region of Gippsland, Victoria," said Glenn. "My other winning painting 'Four Wheel Drive Track' was also based on a photo I took on a trip however this time we were on our way to Cowra from Tamworth."

Glenn, a member of the MFPA, began painting in 1964 after a diving accident a year earlier that left him a quadriplegic at the age of 15. He is renowned for his typically Australian landscape paintings inspired by his travels.

"I was really pleased when I found out that I'd won both second and third prize. I've entered my paintings in the EKKA a number of times and previously received awards, but I've never got two places in one year," said Glenn.

Glenn is passionate about spreading the word about his ability to paint and has travelled throughout Australia for a number of exhibitions and to visit community groups and schools to demonstrate the art of mouth painting, to educate them on the MFPA and to share his life story.

Founded in 1956 by a group of European artists, the MFPA is a self-help organisation which gives people with disabilities the opportunity to fulfil their creative ambitions while still maintaining financial independence by selectively selling their artworks.

The MFPA was established in Australia in 1971 and currently has 17 members around the country.

To become a student member an artist must qualify by painting using a brush held in either their mouth or foot, having lost the use of their hands through an illness or accident. Student members receive scholarships for art supplies and tuition. Once an artist becomes a full member or associate they are guaranteed a salary for life, even if they are unable to continue painting.

Released for MFPA by Dennis Rutzou Public Relations (www.drpr.com.au)
For further information please call Petra Aitken on (02) 9413 4244.

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