The Arts Society Phillip Island Region (ASPIR) Cup Weekend Exhibition and Young Artist Award is being held at Berninneit, the Cowes Cultural Centre, at 91-97 Thompson Ave, Cowes, Phillip Island.

The exhibition runs from Friday October 31 through until Tuesday November 4.

ASPIR showcases the works of its members. The exhibition this year promises to be exceptional as membership has grown and over 250 entries have been received.

Judging will take place on Friday with the announcement of awards and presentations from 7pm that evening in the exhibition space. All welcome to attend.

This year's judge is Denise Keele-Bedford, an Australian artist based at the Stony Creek Studio, Warrandyte. Between 2005 and 2019 she maintained a work studio at Huanghua Studio in Beijing China.

Denise has had major solo, invitational and group exhibitions in Australia and China, and multiple commissions, awards and residencies around the world.

The exhibition showcases the work of many ASPIR members across a broad range of media.  There are various categories and it is at the judge's discretion to determine which works may be considered for each award.

ASPIR receives wonderful sponsorship for the awards from local businesses and organisations.

The major sponsor for this exhibition is the Bendigo Community Bank of Cowes, San Remo and Grantville.

The categories and sponsors are:

* Best in Show: (any work) $1000 Bendigo Community Bank

* Best Painting: $500 Phillip Island RSL

* Nature, Environment & Wildlife Award: $500 Phillip Island Nature Parks

* Best 3D Artwork: $400  Phillip Island Winery 

* Best Digital Artwork or Photograph: $400 Brinnie T Design and Flowers of Phillip Island

* Best Other Medium: $400 Alex Scott & Staff

* There are four Highly Commended Awards of $100 provided by Bendigo Community Bank

The Young Artist Award involves selected works from five local primary school students and will be judged by Josephine Allen with awards again sponsored by the Bendigo Community Bank

The People's Choice Award of a $250 voucher from Senior Art Supplies is selected by popular vote and announced at the close of the exhibition.

All are welcome to come and see the exhibition. Entry is free and there is much to enjoy.