The Riversdale Arts Mixed Media Art Exhibition kicks off its virtual month-long display this evening with a launch party to celebrate the success of adapting their beloved art show to going virtual. 

Usually, the popular art show runs each year over a 10-day period and attracts artists from all over the country. However, Riversdale Arts had to reluctantly cancel its 47th annual show due to uncertainty around holding events during the COVID-19 Alert Level stages.

Riversdale Arts president Kerryn Miller said there will be a few physical pieces on display and available for purchase at the launch party but most of the art it will be showcased online throughout the whole month of July. 

Ms Miller said purchasers could browse through the 300 artworks online, make a purchase through Riversdale Arts website and then the artwork would be shipped directly from the artist to the purchaser.

She said it was bit like "online shopping, but for artworks," and still showcased top-quality art in a variety of media from talented New Zealand artists.

Riversdale Arts administrator Jann Robertson said it had been a huge effort to get the art show online but good practice for the future. In the coming years, Riversdale Arts wanted to offer an online element and well as a physical show.

Ms Miller said what made the Mixed Media Art Exhibition special was that artists submitted their work from all over the country, ensuring there was new and unique work on display for Southlanders to appreciate. 

"We want to make sure we have something you wouldn't usually see here," she said. 

Riversdale Arts president Kerryn Miller, past Riversdale Arts president Christine O’Connor and Riversdale Arts administrator Jann Robertson at the Riversdale Arts online July Exhibition launch.

Last year the exhibition had 80 or 90 exhibitors and attracted around 2000 visitors over the 10 days.

This year, Ms Miller it had been a little daunting not knowing how the online show would go but she was excited to see what happens. 

She said around 50 people were attending the launch party, with more ticket sales expected at the door.

Award winning travel photographer Chris McLennan is the guest speaker for the evening. He has worked on photography assignments in over 50 countries. 

CLICK HERE to view the artworks online.