In August 1983, at the 16th Raymond Terrace Art Show, I received my first major award, the main prize with "Timber Mill Upper Thora". Over the following years I continued to win numerous first prizes, close to two hundred in all. I've kept the judges remarks whenever they were made available in writing.
From my records I quote judges comments that have been made about my work:
For "Rocky Outcrops Carrowbrook" winner of Cessnock Art Show 1986. 'A very professional handling of medium, and a noted ability to capture the light and colours of the Australian landscape, in the tradition of Streeton and Roberts.'
John Botheral, lecturer at Hunter Institute Higher Education observed that my "Hillside Gums near Glenrock Lagoon" was 'Confidently painted - no attempt made to disguise the fact that the artist has used paint and brush – a painterly result, subtle yet strong. While some other works tend to be overly pretty, picture post card bright, sharp and glossy, this well composed work captures the more subdued atmosphere of the Australian bush, and will give pleasure for years to come.' [See No. 1]
Swansea Art show 1992. "Foxgloves and Daisies" Judge's comments. 'This artist always produces excellent work – work that is diverse and explores different avenues of artistic endeavour. Her landscapes are well known, and are always of a hight standard. She has no hesitation in changing her style. Her grounding in the visual arts enables her to transfer without difficulty.'
Soc. of Artists Art show 1993 winner of traditional section. Judge's comments. 'My personal preferences move me away from flower paintings, but oddly enough, "Arrangement with Agapanthus and Hydrangeas" is just that, which may suggest it is a better work than I give it credit for. Merran Cork convinced me of her talent with "Stream near Ballina" which captured the mood of her subject matter very convincingly. [See No. 2]
Soc. of Artists Art show 1994. Miniature section. “Summer Evening Hunter Valley" Judge's comments. 'Colour and tone were fantastic. What more can I say?'
First prize Miniature section Bright Autumn art Competition 1997. "Arrangement In Autumn Tones" [see No. 3] Judge's comment. 'Again a difficult decision. The work was chosen for its brilliance of colour and over all balance. A nice little painting.' [See No. 3]
First prize for a traditional painting Mattara Soc. Of Artists. 1995. "Overlooking Lake Macquarie from Arcadia Vale" Judge Graham Cox's comments: 'A fine example of the traditional approach to landscape painting, which affords pleasure to countless thousands of appreciative collectors. Merran Cork obviously values the principles laid down by the earlier masters and shows, in this painting, her own valuable contribution to our artistic heritage.'
[See No. 4]
