A BUMPER crowd squeezed into the Elizabeth Guzsely Gallery for the inaugural Archies portrait exhibition, with familiar local faces and historical Cooktown identities spread across the walls.
The local version of the famous Archibald Prize, the Archies is the first portrait exhibition organised by the Cooktown School of Art Society and is hoped to become an annual event.
“It has been so popular, we had to extend the entry closing date due to popular demand,” society president Jane Dennis said.
Ms Dennis also said the crowd at opening night on Friday was possibly a record for the gallery, and many more than expected, with 130 people in attendance.
The Archies awards night, which is also open to the public, will be on Friday 27 October at the gallery on Charlotte Street next to the RSL Memorial Club.
Rodney Lousteau, whose portrait featured in the exhibition, and Johnno enjoying opening night.
Ranger Craig Hall and Cook Shire Councillor Marilyn Morris checking out the artworks.
Jasmine Sieverding and Halle Davis enjoyed the opening night.
Catherine Clarke with daughters Holly and Jade.
Natsuko Kurihara and Hiroyuki Matsumoto came in from Rossville for opening night.
Rhonda Laity and Shelley Burt caught up at the Archies opening night.
Lea Hartwig, Bek Stewart and Jane White checking out the artworks.
Aisha Bashir and Paula Widuch enjoyed a night out at the Elizabeth Guzsely Gallery.
Cooktown School of Art Society member Tracey Blumer with her portrait of fellow artist Gisela.
Isobella Barker and Amanda Jones, with Amanda’s portrait of local icon Roy Dick.
Joel and Venus Docker with children Malcolm and Winnie, and friend Jen Young, in front of Jen’s portrait of Malcolm.
