STANLEY creative Robyn McLennan had been among more than 15 local artists showcasing their work at the village's recent art exhibition 'Beyond the Bends' held at the Soldiers' Memorial Hall.

"This was my first exhibition and just beautiful, and can't believe the professionalism," she said.

"I studied art 10 years ago, taught for a decade and have been a professional artist for the last six months."

As an all–rounder Robyn said mediums she used are mainly water colour on canvas and sometimes she also potted with ceramics.

"I like painting landscapes landscape with various layers – macro and micro – and all the elements in between and then I like to overlay it," she said.

For Stanley's Jonathan McNaughton, the artist considered that talent existed across the country.

"It's good to be involved with a group of people who produce their work from the heart from their skills and enjoy working together," he said.

Exhibition curator Mary Rose Riley said the exhibition had drawn a fabulous response from people.

"It's the first time we have been able to enjoy this exhibition since 2017," she said.

"Meeting each other is an important aspect of the exhibition, it's an opportunity to share what we do with the whole community and the wider community too.

"It's also a chance to be part of the wider world outside of our studios."

Artist and coordinator for the event Janet Sutherland said 11 artwork sales had taken place by the end of the exhibition.

"The first 'Beyond the Bends Exhibition' was held 15 years ago in the hall," she said.

Rural City of Wangaratta's manager for arts, culture and events Simone Nolan opened the exhibition.