Hannah wins art comp

artX Regional 2024 first prize winner Hannah Wilkinson with her winning entry at Eastern Hub community centre. (supplied)

With more than 90 entries to choose from, judges of the artX Regional 2024 Trophy have announced Hannah Wilkinson as the winner.

Hannah, from the ArtGusto studio, was a standout with her abstract painting from the broad palette of artists who submitted a diverse range of high-standard entries.

Coordinated by genU, artX Regional is now in its 16th year. Previously known as artX Geelong, the exhibition is an opportunity for artists who with disability or a history of mental illness to gain recognition for their creative efforts.

Hannah was away when the annual prize was announced at the Eastern Hub’s Rachinger Gallery in East Geelong.

“I was surprised I won and it still hasn’t sunk in,” she said.

“I didn’t think mine was the best.”

As part of her first prize, genU will buy the artwork to display in the genU Hall of Fame at head office in Belmont.

About 100 people attended the official opening of artX Regional 2024, which is a bright highlight on the genU events calendar, according to genU chief executive Clare Amies.

“genU’s mission is to empower people to reach their full potential so we are very proud to support this initiative and showcase the talents of 86 regional artists,” she said.

“The quality and variety of entries were once again outstanding, and it’s obvious the artwork comes from the heart. We’re blessed to have so many artists willing to share their artwork with our community.

“I encourage locals to visit the exhibition to see the vibrancy and artistic flair on display and take the opportunity to buy an original piece.”

The exhibition is at Eastern Hub’s Rachinger Gallery, East Geelong, until April 23.