GIFTED Murrurundi artist David Darcy can't wait for the opening night of the Archibald Prize 2019 Regional Tour at the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre this weekend.
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You see, the Upper Hunter resident boasts a personal interest in the collection, which will be unveiled on Saturday night.
His portrait of Warakurna elder Daisy Tjuparntarri Ward was not only a finalist in last year's Archibald Prize, it took out the People's Choice category.
He met Mrs Ward after she travelled from her home in Western Australia to visit a friend and stopped in at his studio and shop, Darcy and the Fox, looking for art supplies.
Now, his work - and many fabulous others - are part of the prestigious regional tour.
"It's a real buzz for me," Darcy said.
"To win [People's Choice] was such a huge honour, especially in a famous competition like the Archibald Prize.
"It is an amazing feeling.
"To have it then come 'local' on the tour is a secondary win.
"It's certainly a coup for the Upper Hunter."
Darcy admitted he was thoroughly impressed by the Archibald Prize 2019 Regional Tour.
"It is very extensive - I think it's appearing in about six different galleries," he said.
"So, this is a huge thing for Muswellbrook and a credit to the town's arts centre.
"Every gallery hangs the exhibition differently.
"And, from an artist's perspective, it's interesting to see how your painting is displayed.
"I'm looking forward to see how the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre does it.
"Even though I'm currently on holidays, I'm returning 'home' for the opening night.
"It will be good to catch up with the locals, too.
"So, come up and say hello on the evening, check out the fantastic works and grab a photo.
"I hope people take advantage of having the regional tour in the area."
It all kicks off from 6pm, with the winners of the Muswellbrook Young Archie competition also being announced.
The Archibald Prize 2019 Regional Tour will be on display at the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre from Saturday, January 25, to Sunday, March 8.
