David Isbester is a member of the Canowindra Art Network and has established his own gallery and studio space in one of the town's heritage buildings.

Cleverly re-christened River Bank Gallery, Isbester has already held exhibitions of both his own work and other that of other artists in the stately old Georgian bank building in the main street.

The old banking chamber houses the gallery, which has a selection of fine art, antiques and locally produced products and since the first exhibition opening in March, has expanded to other ideas, such as weekly art classes, workshops and discussions.

Isbester believes strongly in the need for more artists to show their work in the community and welcomes more galleries in the Canowindra area.

He has a vision for Canowindra, similar to that of Broken Hill, which has dozens of galleries that draw thousands of arts supporters.

"Our ethos is to add to and support the strong artistic presence in this vibrant district.

"We need something here in town to draw visitors. I could just live here and sell paintings without having a gallery but we need something in this town.

"With two galleries, we draw three times as many people, with four galleries, five times as many people and so on.

"This is not so much about building up my own business, but trying to build up an industry for everyone - the artists, the gallery

operators, the town in general."

River Bank Gallery is just about to wrap up its current group exhibition, "Talls", with preparations well underway for Saturday's opening, focusing on Forbes artists, Elaine Imrie and Pamela Thompson.

Imrie and Thompson's work will remain on exhibition until the end of June, after which even more artists will become involved with the next scheduled River Bank Gallery offering, "Vision of Canowindra".

"Vision of Canowindra" is open to all artists interested in participating, with works to have an obvious association with Canowindra, although any medium or style is acceptable.

Artists may submit as many works as they like, which must be received by June 22.

River Bank Gallery is at 71 Gaskill St Canowindra and is open Monday to Friday and public holidays.

To learn more about their school holiday activities, weekly workshops, or schedule of exhibitions, contact David Isbester on 6344 2778.