Every event needs a point of difference, and for the Roma Picnics it’s the fact they like to combine racing and fashion with the work of country artists.
Afternoon Tea in the Wool Court has been an institution at the Roma Picnics for many years but recently the Roma Picnic Race Club committee has begun using the occasion to showcase some fantastic art.
This year will see the return of two much loved rural artists, Dalby-based Kylie McLean who uses dots and dashes to create some beautiful drawings, and Quilpie painter Lyn Barnes whose depictions of Queensland’s Channel Country have been delighting art lovers for decades.
The March 17 event will also see emerging artist, Dianne Gibson, make her debut at the CJ Advisory Art & Tea.
Ms Gibson, who hails from a beef and sheep property between Roma and Injune, is best known for her fun animal drawings in pen and ink.
“I do cartoonish sort of works – mainly of animals like horses, chooks, sheep and cows,” she said.
“I usually drawn on canvas but I have recently starting doing some pieces on metal which has been interesting. I’m delighted to be coming along to Art & Tea – events like this really make me push myself.”
Roma Picnic Race Club’s Penelope Arthur said Art & Tea was a popular event at the Picnics.
“People love taking a break from the betting ring or bar and just relaxing with friends over a delicious sweet and savoury menu for a little while,” she said.
“The artists all bring a small selection of their work and it creates a great atmosphere in the Wool Court as people get around to look the pieces they have on offer.”
Art & Tea will run directly after Fashions of the Field with doors set to open at 3.30pm. It costs $15 per person, payable at the door, but is included in the weekend ticket package.