A metal sculpture by Wānaka artist Scott Johnson has been named the overall winner at the Wānaka Art Society Labour Weekend Art Exhibition.

The exhibition, at the Lake Wānaka Centre, features works by more than 130 artists.

“It is marvellous ... all the time involved in making and you get some rewards,” an emotional Scott Johnson said.

Scott’s winning sculpture, ‘The Gathering’, is a collection of 13 small kinetic dandelions and a ‘Grandad’ dandelion four and a half metres high. 

Scott Johnson PHOTO: Wānaka App

Event organiser Vicky Fulton said this year's exhibition is the biggest and most diverse the society has presented.

Vicky Fulton PHOTO: Anna Monroe Photography

“This exhibition has doubled in size in the past four years and looks poised to continue to grow which fulfills the function of having an art society,” Vicky said.

“Along with that growth we have seen a huge diversity of art and this year especially we have attracted artists from further afield, positioning Wānaka as an innovative art centre in New Zealand.

“The last few days have been massive, actually the last few months have been massive.

A large crowd enjoyed the opening night. PHOTO: Wānaka App

“The tireless efforts of the committee need to be recognised.”

The exhibition ends today (Sunday October 23) at 4pm and features guest artists Marcia Scott and Cora-Allan along with six working artists.

List of Awards: 

Merit Award - Kate Willis for ‘Black Peak’, Shane Walker (two dimensional work), Amy Bixby (three dimensional work).

Highly Commended Award - Janette Sharp (quilter), Scott Johnson (metal work), Hilary Smith (ceramics), Joe Wright (woodwork), Tracey Porteous (framed prints).

Shona Johnstone Memorial Award for the overall runner-up - Andie King ‘Mountain Scene’.

Overall winner Scott Johnson