In a showcase of local creative excellence, the stand-out winners of Middelburg Mall’s ‘My Middelburg, My Region’ art competition were chosen from an exciting pool of exceptional “It’s the second year Middelburg Mall has presented this competition, and we’re delighted that, yet again, there were so many compelling pieces from seriously talented and enthusiastic artists. It made judging an incredibly tough task,” says Middelburg Mall centre manager, Mike Tammadge.

He adds: “We thank each entrant. Every submission is a tribute to local talent. It was also wonderful to see the support the display received, and we thank the many people who came to see and enjoy this incredible art.”

With his extraordinary sculptural pieces, Coster Mkoki scooped both the winning and the second place in this category. This is the second year that he has entered the competition. In 2012 he claimed second prize in the category. In 2013, his evocative ‘Water Spirit” took first place and his piece ‘Violin Cow’ was chosen as the second place winner.

Maria Mouton claimed first place in the painting category with an engaging scene of laughing children on a backdrop of regional landmarks and cultural icons, followed by Rachel Ainsworth in second place. In addition, judges were so moved by a painting by Desmond Swart, which highlighted the recent initiation ceremony deaths in Mpumalanga, they gave it a special mention.

Alice Bostock won the drawing category with an expressive portrait and Jeanelle van der Westhuizen took second place in this group.

Bronwyn Katzke snapped up the photography category with a engaging roadside image of daily life which finds beauty in surprising places. Ine Mari Smith claimed the second place for photography.

The ‘anything goes’ category winner is Melanie du Toit for her remarkable combination of art and word. Lettie van der Schyff took second place in this category.

Tammadge says: “It has again been a proud pleasure to honour our local talent and share region’s beauty. Besides showcasing the creativity of the people in our region, this competition allows Middelburg Mall and its community to celebrate the splendour of our region and the everyday beauty of our way of life.”

For more information, visit www.middelburgmall.co.za. Alternatively, visit the Facebook page to view the winning entries.