Ceramic crabs, metal horse heads and painted cassette tapes mount the walls and line the tables at the Ashburton Art Gallery.

It’s become a routine for both the gallery and exhibitors – the Ashburton Society of Arts – and it’s a routine going 60 year strong.

“It’s pretty amazing that a committee and group of volunteers set up something, and it’s still going 60 years later,” said society President Kay Begg.

The society is preparing for its annual art exhibit, opening on Monday, which features work from members and a selection of guest artists.

It provides a chance for creatives to have their work seen and, if they’re lucky, bought.

Begg called it a treat for the eyes.

“People will be presented with an amazing selection of art from a lot of very talented people.”

She usually buys a piece, but is trying to downsize – though she’s not sure she’ll be able to keep that promise.

“I haven’t looked around too much, I don’t want to see something that I really, really, really want!”

The society has a studio on Short Street, which it offers to its 400 members as a workspace and host for small showcases.

To help make back operational costs, the society will take a commission from art sold at the exhibit.

The guest pieces on display this year range from black and white photography to abstract bird paintings.

“It’s just so interesting what people come up with.”

Things will kick off with an official opening on Monday night, where some artists will receive prizes for their work.

“The first prize is $3000, and then there are lot of other things up for grabs.”

Entry to the exhibit is free, and it will run until July 27.

By Anisha Satya