20 June 2005

The Shepparton Art Gallery is holding a colouring competition for children in the region as part of its campaign to ‘Bring Back Larry’.

Director, Ms Leanne Willis, said the competition was open to everyone in the community under 14 years to show their support for the gallery’s campaign to resurrect the vandalised sculpture.

“We have been inundated with calls from residents, particularly parents, who have expressed the distress their children have felt at the loss of ‘Larry’ in the community,” Ms Willis said.

“The colouring competition will be an excellent way for the community, especially the children who love Larry, to become involved in this campaign.”

The gallery’s intention is to raise funds so that artist Pamela Irving can create a new version of “Larry” the dog in the same size but constructed from steel and cement, and covered in mosaic.

The winner of the competition will receive a miniature version of Larry, valued at $250, generously and proudly donated by the Shepparton Art Gallery.

“Come to the gallery to pick up an entry form and help us bring Larry back to life!”

Entries will be received until Friday 22nd July and will be displayed in the foyer of the Eastbank Centre, Welsford Street, Shepparton.  Only one entry per person will be accepted. 

To donate to help with the rebuilding of Larry, the sculpture by artist Pamela Irving that was vandalised at the Shepparton Art Gallery, contact the gallery on 5832 9861, visit them at the Eastbank centre, 70 Welsford Street, Shepparton or write to Bring Back Larry c/o: Shepparton Art Gallery, Locked Bag 1000, Shepparton, Vic 3632.  All donations are tax deductible.