The gallery had been closed for several weeks due to comprehensive and much-needed painting and renovations by a team headed by Mitchell Shire’s Neil Clothier.
The Old Courthouse in High St is now light-filled and perfect for displaying the region’s artistic talent.
Seymour and District Art Society president Wid Bradley was amazed at the gallery’s transformation.
‘‘The old beautiful flooring was restored and the cabinet woodwork gleams,’’ she said.
‘‘I cannot begin to express how chuffed and proud I am of the outstanding value we have received from council.
‘‘Neil arranged and co-ordinated the entire project and we are inordinately grateful for all his expertise and excellence of communication.
‘‘It is important for a community to put a high value on creative art and historical buildings.
‘‘When they show that value through maintenance and preservation, what could have been a burden becomes an asset.’’
The Seymour and District Art Society was founded in the historic building in 1987 and now has more than 40 members.
Every year the members hold an afternoon tea in July, and all are welcome to come and meet the artists, enjoy their work and the afternoon tea.
This year’s event is on Sunday at 2.30pm.
In October the Art Society will hold the Art Beyond the Divide open exhibition at Wine X Sam in Anzac Ave, with music for the opening provided by local musician Caitlin Trotter.
Entries are received from across the country for the annual display under the direction of Wendy Webster.
For more information, visit seymourartsociety.org.au
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