The group’s entry was knocked back last year because it wasn’t an entry from an individual, but the rules have since changed to accept the group’s entry. 

Ted Laxton said the entry was inspired by the Australian coat of arms, but had a closer link to the representation of indigenous people. 

Seven men are depicted in the middle of the painting, representing the men in the art group.

The group meets each Monday afternoon and paints for about three hours, assisted by artist Peter Wildmer. 

“We don’t use traditional Aboriginal dot painting methods,” Mr Laxton said.

“We create our own stamps and paint free-hand as well.”

The group formed one year ago, with only a couple of members having previous artistic experience. 

In that time, the group has won the first prize at the Daylesford Art Show, had an exhibition and has had three pieces acquired by the National Gallery of Victoria. 

Mr Laxton said it was rewarding when the group won that first prize.

“We’re out to capture the world now,” he said.

The Art Gallery of Ballarat will host the Victorian Indigenous Art Awards this year for the second year.