Entries are now open for the inaugural Waste 2 Art Competition and Exhibitions, to be held in Gloucester, Great Lakes and Greater Taree, culminating in a Regional Exhibition in November 2010, coinciding with National Recycling Week. Entry is free and there are over $10,000 worth of prizes to be won, so get your creative juices flowing and grab an entry form today.

The theme of this year’s competition is Reduce REUSE Recycle, and artworks must be made predominantly from waste materials. Entries are encouraged from schools and community members living in Gloucester, Great Lakes and Greater Taree. You may enter in one of the following sections:

• Primary (Years 1, 2 and 3);
• Primary (Years 3, 4 and 5);
• Community; and
• Open (for professional artists).

Artworks must demonstrate the concept of reusing waste products and materials as a creative resource (at least 90% of the artwork must be of a previously used resource). Participants may submit works in any one of the following 3 categories:

• Paper (works made predominantly from previously used paper products);
• E-Waste (works to incorporate electronic waste) or
• Mixed Media (works can use a range of different products).

The competition is in 2 stages, the first being a local competition and exhibition in each of the 3 council areas. Artworks will be exhibited locally during September 2010. The artworks of the winner and runner up in each category and section from these competitions will be transported to compete in the regional competition and exhibition.

Entry into the competition is FREE and the prizes are many, thanks to our generous sponsors; Midwaste Regional Waste Forum, Great Lakes Council, Greater Taree City Council, Gloucester Shire Council, JR Richards & Sons, Stockland Forster and Country Energy.