As a wonderful tribute to a stalwart of the local cultural scene, Orange Art Society is having a special exhibition opening.

The art, works, and life of distinguished society member Ricia Mari is being held at their gallery at 22 Sale Street (opposite Harris Farm Markets) on Sunday, November 2, from 2pm.

The event will launch a retrospective exhibition of the late creative's extensive works, and everyone is welcome to attend, emphasised Kaye Partridge from the society.

“Ricia was an international artist of some note, she was an eccentric character and quite well-known locally as well,” Kaye said.

“She was a member for something like four decades, and we just wanted to be able to give her that retrospective, as a tribute,” she added.

Displaying the works of this well-travelled abstract artist – who during her lifetime, also had works at shows in France, Belgium, Italy, Austria, and Cuba over the years – also has another wonderful purpose, Kaye revealed.

“Her family said they were happy for us to sell her works, and use the funds. So, all of the works will be available for sale during the exhibition period,” Kaye explained.

Her style, Kaye revealed, was the product not only of the times but also of her varied travel way back in the 1970s to then-exotic locations including East Nepal, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

“She first joined as a member 40 years ago when she moved to Molong, so her ties go back a long way,” Kaye said.

“Her full name was actually Patricia Maree Spencer, and she published books as well, which will also be on display.”

In more exciting news for the society, they are also holding a special Open Day and Christmas Market on Saturday, November 22, from 9am.

The event, this year, will also include being able to watch members work at their creations, Kaye said.

“This is an annual event, and everything for sale has been handmade in one way or another; not just paintings but also, toys, arts, crafts, of every kind,” she said.

“We’re also coordinating with our open day and people will be able to see what the society is all about, maybe join in, if they wish.”

First cab off the rank, however, is the exhibition opening on Sunday.

“There’ll be lots of Ricia’s works for sale at the event,” Kaye said. “We’ll have afternoon tea, and maybe even a glass of wine,” she concluded.

For more information, go to: orangeartsociety.com.au