A red carpet event will mark the opening of an impressive art exhibition run in conjunction with Rotorua's popular annual Wearable Creationz.

The Art exhibition is the biggest of its kind the region has seen, showcasing more than 300 works created by 80 artists. All artworks will be for sale, offering members of the public an opportunity to purchase unique pieces of contemporary art.

The exhibition will have a red carpet VIP opening on Sunday, August 12 and will be open to the public from August 13 to 19 in the foyer of Rotorua's Energy Events Centre.

In the lead up to the art exhibition, artist Lianne Maxwell will be at Capers Epicurean in Eruera St demonstrating her skill this Wednesday, Thursday and Friday (August 8,9,10).

Each day of the exhibition, from 11.30 am to 2pm, artists will be work among the eclectic collection of works, giving visitors to the exhibition the opportunity to view them at work and see how their artworks are created.

Monday 13th August Judith Prictor Tuesday 14th August Jessica Newman Wednesday 15th August Mary Hodge Thursday 16th August Don Hunt Friday 17th August Miriam Ruberl

Tickets to Rotorua's Wearable Creationz shows on August 16, 17 and 18 can be purchased online, or at the Ticketmaster office in the Convention Centre Fenton St.

A record 74 entries from around the North Island were received this year. Entrants will be vying for first, second and third in each of five categories with the Harvey World Travel Rotorua, Singapore Airlines and Holland America supreme winner selected from the five category winners.

The event includes a matinee show on Thursday, August 16, a gala night on Friday, August 17 and the awards night on Saturday, August 18.