The artistic town of Eumundi on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast showcased ‘The Best of Oz’ theme for the 2013 Australian Body Art Carnivale, last weekend.
The colourful community arts drew thousands of spectators to watch some of the nation’s best body artists, face painters, vehicle artists and wearable art designers do battle.
Event manager Danielle Taylor says the theme of ‘The Best of Oz’ drew a wide range of interpretations across all competition categories: “The theme saw artwork showcasing everything from Australian mammals, reptiles and birdlife to delicate wildflowers and dramatic landscapes.”
There were also tributes to ANZACS, swagmen and flying doctors, as well as notable Australians like Bryce Courtenay, Young Einstein and Priscilla Queen of the Desert. The Opera House featured, as did Aussie icons like the Hills Hoist, Vegemite and even budgie smugglers.
Other artists chose to take the Best of Oz theme to be Wizard of Oz – with emerald cities, Dorothy’s red shoes and Toto featuring in the artworks.
“There’s always an incredible buzz when more than 100 artists come together to create and then parade their works,” says Danielle.
“The artists require a strong focus to create their masterpieces within the defined time limits of the competition, yet all seemed to really enjoy themselves with a great sense of camaraderie and encouragement for each other’s work.”
Visit www.australianbodyart.com.au for further information.