A LOCAL artist has been awarded prestigious honours for her watercolour painting currently on display at Bridgwater Arts Centre.

Anne Farmer won the Artist Choice Award for her 'Watering Hole, Langport' painting as part of the En Plein Air Exhibition at the Bridgwater Arts Centre.

Despite exceptional competition, Anne's painting was voted as the standout piece by fellow society members.

Bridgwater Mayor, Cllr Mick Lerry, and Mayoress, Liz Marsh, presented Anne with the award at a ceremony held at Bridgwater Arts Centre.

A spokesperson said: "The award represents the recognition and admiration of the local artistic community for Anne's remarkable talent and her significant contribution to the exhibition.

"Anne's work truly stood out as a testament to her skill and creativity."

For more information about the En Plein Air Exhibition or to view Anne Farmer's award-winning watercolour painting, 'Watering Hole, Langport,' visit the Bridgwater Arts Centre at 11-13 Castle Street, TA6 3DD, Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm.

For this year's exhibition, society members took inspiration from the River Parrett, Dunster Castle, and Wells.

The Bridgwater Arts Centre exhibition showcases various art forms, ranging from oil paintings to fieldwork, abstracts, and photography, and seeks to bring light to the diversity and talent of artists in the local community and beyond.

The En Plein Air Exhibition will remain open to the public until Friday December 1, providing art enthusiasts and the general public with the opportunity to explore the wide array of artistic creations on display.

A spokesperson for Bridgwater Arts Centre added: "Visitors have the opportunity to experience a wide range of artistic expressions, each offering a unique perspective and inspiration."

Anne, a member of Somerset Art Works, said: "My watercolour paintings show my response to the world around me.

"I was always inspired by the beauty found on my doorstep.

"So there are barns, wonky gates, puddles, ruts, meadows, cows and sheep – a bit of a muddle, but, I hope, a colourful and carefully observed muddle!

"I like to try fresh modern techniques as well as the more traditional approach.

"I begin by trying to get what I see onto the paper, then at some point the image takes over.

"I find a backbone of drawing frees up the painting, and I often alternate the two.

"Sometimes gesso, ink and crayons enhance the watercolour effect."