They were hoping for 50 entries but the Whanganui community showed a burst of enthusiasm and supplied more than 70 items for the Shades of Green art exhibition which opens on Saturday.
Organised by the Green Party Whanganui branch to encourage local artists to explore green themes, the call for entries was answered with a diverse range of professional and amateur pieces.
"This is such a great event to have amidst all the campaigning," said local Green Party candidate Nicola Patrick.
"The party want to support working artists as well as aspiring amateurs and it is an opportunity for people to exhibit their ingenuity as well."
There are large, three-dimensional works made from found and recycled objects incorporating living plants, works that make strong political and environmental statements and some that are simply green in colour.
Mark Rayner has submitted a hooked rug portrait of former Green Party leader Metiria Turei.
"I think it's beautiful," said Ms Patrick.
"Metiria is a crafter so I'm sure she will love it too."
Rather than charge a fee to exhibitors, the organisers are asking for a 30 per cent commission to be donated to the Green Party for any work sold.
"For working artists, it's a reasonable commission," said organiser Rene Schmidt.
"It also gives people who may not have exhibited before the chance to display their work and offer it for sale if they want to."
Shades of Green will be opened by Nicola Patrick and Green MP Gareth Hughes at 6pm, Saturday, September 9, Arts @ Centre, 19 Taupo Quay. All welcome.