For the past year 28 of Bendigo’s artists have been working on more than 60 pieces of art which is being auctioned off to raise money for Maubisse in East Timor.

People came together to see the exhibition at Dudley House on Friday night.

Bendigo-Maubisse Friendship Committee chairman Barry Secombe said all of the works had been inspired by East Timor.

“Artists have contributed their time to produce work that reflects the lifestyle, the culture and the typography of Maubisse,” he said.

Mr Secombe said he was excited with how many people had attended the exhibition opening.

“Indications show that we are going to get some excellent patronage and make a lot of money,” he said.

Money raised from the silent auction, which ends on Wednesday, will go towards various projects in Maubisse.

“We have identified a number of projects that need funding such as the need for a vocational centre, a community house that we are endeavouring to build on. There is also money to go to a refurbishment of schools and the radio station,” Mr Secombe said.  

Artist Jenny Feiss said the exhibition had been a fantastic community project.

“It has linked the Bendigo art community to another country,” she said.

“I think a community such as Bendigo that reaches out and supports another country shows how strong the Bendigo community is.” 

The exhibition runs until November 13 and is open from 10am to 4pm.

kristen.alebakis@fairfaxmedia.com.au