On Saturday, 14 September, Outback Arts hosted the grand opening of this year's Outback Archies exhibition, celebrating the vibrant creativity and unique stories of our region's artists.

This year's exhibition, featuring 88 artworks from 18 local government areas across Western NSW and beyond, explores the theme Legends and Landscapes.

Artists from Coonamble did particularly well, but there was plenty of talent shown from other areas of the Western Plains as well.

"It's great to see artists from Bourke, Wentworth and all different shires coming in and hopefully they can grow from this opportunity," Outback Arts CEO Jamie-Lea Trindall said.

At the opening, Ms Trindall announced the Outback Archies, established in 2011, will be going through a makeover in the coming year and that the public will be invited to offer input and suggest ways to improve.

"The Outback Archies are a highlight on the arts calendar in Western NSW, and we are thrilled to announce upcoming changes, including a rebrand and restructure of the prize,” she said.

Jude Flemming of Warren with her winning work, Jump Up. Photo: supplied

In the meantime, it's a great opportunity to view some of the talented artists from across our region, including the unique image entitled Dave by Georgia Ditchfield of Coonamble, which received first place in the photography section .

"Nestled between old gum trees, you’ll find Dave hard at work, no matter the temperature, forging knives. Like forging precious metals into elegant knives, we too, are shaped by our surroundings," Ms Ditchfield said.

"Dave’s quiet passion and dedication to his craftsmanship is an example to inspire, with his unwavering commitment to his craft. Dave is a friend and neighbour, from whom I draw inspiration in the heart of the bush."

Dave by Georgia Ditchfield of Coonamble won the photography award. Photo: facebook.

Ms Trindall said, “We are always so excited by the entries, and this year is no different. The quality is high, but what is most inspiring is the way people find and express stories of the legends and landscapes from their everyday lives."

Judging the talent this year were artist Ana Robson from Coonamble, Campbelltown Arts Centre curator Emily Rolfe and chair of Aboriginal Regional Arts Aleisha Longsdale.

"(The works) show the love we have for our landscape and our country around here," Ms Robson said.

Outback Arts aims to bring artists together to inspire one another and their community as well as providing emerging artists with a platform to boost their profile. It works in partnership with regional and metropolitan sponsors to present this exhibition and support emerging and established artists.

A complete list of winners from this year's Outback Archies art prize can be found on the Outback Arts Facebook page.

The exhibition will be on display at the Outback Arts Gallery in Coonamble until 25 October. Visitors are encouraged to vote for their favourite artwork for the People’s Choice Award. Many of the exhibits are up for sale.