We are honoured to welcome a celebrated artist with deep roots in our region and a long-standing connection to the Currabubula Art Show – James White – as our guest judge for the painting category in 2025.

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Born in 1946 and raised on the family farm near Boggabri in northern NSW, James discovered his love for art during his school years, first at the local bush school and later at The Armidale School. It was there, under the guidance of Fred Roberts, that his artistic journey began to flourish.

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In 1964, just after finishing school, James won the watercolour prize at the Currabubula Art Show – a milestone that encouraged him to continue painting. He went on to win the same prize another six times in the years that followed, becoming a familiar and admired name among art show supporters and entrants alike.

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Following several years travelling and painting overseas, James returned to the family property near Boggabri. Influenced by local artist Rupert Richardson – who would later become a Member of the Australian Watercolour Institute – James embraced watercolour as his preferred medium.

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Known for his use of strong, clean colours and luminous light, James draws inspiration from memory, his travels, and the rural landscapes of northern NSW. His work often tells a story – sometimes with a playful or humorous twist – making it both distinctive and deeply engaging.

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We are delighted to welcome James White back to Currabubula – not as a competitor this time, but as our esteemed guest judge for 2025.