Northampton visitors make ‘Ewe Turn’ for art

Northampton’s inaugural “Ewe Turn” festival last weekend was declared a success by organisers and all who attended.

On display was a yard full of brightly coloured fibreglass sheep, each decorated by an individual artist, club, business or community group, with the winning entry decided by public vote.

They are now to be placed in shops, offices and front yards in a bid to put Northampton on the map as the town that has painted sheep in its shops, offices and front yards.

Local artist Kathleen Gedling’s “Ulurewe” attracted 93 votes, easily outpacing its nearest rival by more than 20 votes.

It depicts a desert landscape with a stockman in the foreground.

“I just love painting outback scenes from WA,” Mrs Gedling said.

“I live on the edge of Northampton and we are surrounded by sheep in the countryside and it’s beautiful.”

Stalls selling local crafts supported the main event which also had a stage with a continuous series of entertainers.

Organising committee member Lyn Brunke said they were pleased with the number of local and out-of-town people who came. “I couldn’t guess how many people were here but it’s been a wonderful crowd, happy people,” she said.

“They really loved the sheep and had a hard time picking the one they really liked.

“Stallholders felt they’ve been well patronised and a lot of work over 18 months has been well worth it.”

Fine weather was a major factor in attracting so many people, coming as it did after several weeks of good rains. “We have been having several words to him up there that it won’t rain,” Mrs Brunke said.

“I believe there’s more rain forecast.”

Ms Brunke would not be drawn on whether Ewe Turn was likely to become an annual event.

“Everyone’s asking the same thing, watch this space,” she said.