COLOUR, texture and the grassy plains of Moorabool have been central to Janice Webster’s world for quite some time.
The Bacchus Marsh artist has been documenting the shire’s history through oil, watercolour and pastel paintings for more than 30 years.
Mrs Webster says her interest in the craft grew after meeting an inspiring teacher.
“I then became obsessed, it became my passion,” she says.
She says a room used to house her 20-odd pieces eventually evolved into a gallery and studio where she holds classes for budding artists.
She believes Moorabool is in desperate need of a dedicated gallery or display space to show off local talent.
“Art has really grown and been nurtured over the years. We need to keep encouraging that, and artists need to have a space where they can sell their work,” Mrs Webster says.
“It’s integral to tourism in the shire. Painting is a great way to document the area’s history, and Moorabool has no shortage of material to work with.”
Mrs Webster also runs Allawah vegetable farm, on Werribee Vale Road, growing spinach, rhubarb and silverbeet for local and Melbourne markets.
The farm will be open to the public from 10am-4.30pm as part of Bacchus Marsh’s annual Harvest Festival this Sunday.
Mrs Webster’s gallery will display her works, with silk scarves and prints also for sale.
The festival’s free bus tour, Hidden Treasures of the West, is sponsored by Ballan and District Chamber of Commerce.
Seats must be booked by phoning 0400145558.
Details: visitbacchusmarsh.com.au
