CREATIVE talent runs strong in the genes of the Fisher family, as evidenced by all those in attendance at The Khaya on Saturday night for the official unveiling of the latest local art exhibition.

Called ‘Through the Eyes of the Generations’, the pieces are the work of matriarch Rita Fisher, her daughters Margi Peck and Jennie Forster, and granddaughter Jess Forster.

“What a privilege it is to exhibit together, we are all so happy to show these works in our hometown,” Jennie said.

Rita’s son John opened the show, compensating for his lack of artistic talent with an entertaining and self-deprecating address that paid tribute to the talent of the Fisher women.

Over 40 pieces were produced for the exhibition and are now on display until the end of November.

Whilst Jess was unable to attend the official opening due to university commitments, most of the extended family gathered to celebrate the first Fisher family art exhibition in 11 years.

“It has really paid off, from sitting around the kitchen table as children with colouring in books and pencils, enjoying art as a family, to now having our artworks in a gallery together, I am so proud of them all,” Rita said.

Margi noted that Rita has always encouraged the family’s artistic endeavours.

“Ma is the inspiration for the whole family and we have a great support network across the generations,” Margi said.

Jess, who is studying Art and Design at the University of NSW, commented that the exhibition is a reflection of a family who share a passionate pursuit and are happy to share it with the people of Cootamundra.

“Art is not just skills, it is about the input of love and how much of your soul you leave on the canvas,” Jess said.

“This says it all really and there is plenty of love on these walls.”

Nature is a strong theme in many of the works in the exhibition, which include ink portraits of native birds, multimedia pieces and more traditional landscapes.

All the artworks are for sale and will be on display in The Khaya until the end of November.