“We are so excited to have so many big names including internationally acclaimed artist Tim Winters and Wellington wonder Eris Fleming here presenting art which people have never seen before.

“It really is amazing for the town and its community and the wider parts of the region.’’ Wellington Arts president Danielle Anderson said.

The exhibition is in the Old Western Stores building for two weeks, the longest such an event has taken centre stage.

With the Eisteddfod also being staged now, it is hoped many of those visiting Wellington will take time to drop in and view the selection of prized art works.

“This event is something of a forerunner for our local artists who have a lower profile.

“We would like to get them out there and run more exhibitions because we have some very good artists right here in our town,” Ms Anderson said.

It is s the first of a series of events which will culminate with James Morrison in concert at the Showground this September.

‘’It is really is an amazing time for Wellington arts and Mr Morrison, who is on tour in Vienna and has just been to the White House to perform, will bring his whole band here which is so impressive.

“We are being seen as a nucleus of the Central West for arts with big names and events during the year.’’

Concert tickets are $45.