A FORMER professional artist and judge is one of over 55 artists who have shared their talent in a new artistic book about the Southern Downs.

Quita Hamer retired to Warwick ten years ago and has been blown away by the creative talent in our region.

"The talent that's here is incredible, it's refreshing to see the life in the work,” Ms Hamer said.

"There's a warmth, the same warmth in the paintings as in their personalities.”

Ms Hamer was approached to contribute to the publication, Scenes of the Southern Downs, which was launched by the Warwick Artist Group on Saturday.

She created a stunning painting of a riverbank, using vibrant green and blue hues to depict thin trees reflected on a river.

Many artists who contributed to the new publication chose scenery and wildlife as their inspiration, but Ms Hamer said portraits are a particular area of talent for artists in the region.

"I saw some portraits done that may have been photos,” she said.

Scenes of the Southern Downs was compiled by Susan Ellwood and Sue Keong from the community group.

A former maths and science teacher, Mrs Ellwood only started creating art two years ago and added three of her own pieces to the book.

"I decided from the beginning that I wouldn't make judgements, if they were willing to give it (the art) to me then I'd put it in there,” she said.

"For some of them it was a big step to put it in there.”

There are about 100 pieces of art in the book, created by artists from near and far who have a connection with the Southern Downs.

For some people it was their first piece of art, for others it was another to add to their collection.

Mrs Ellwood spotted a similar book about six months ago and approached Ms Keong to create something similar.

"I got it in my hands when I got a printed copy and I felt like a proud mother, it's just wonderful,” Mrs Ellwood said.

The aim was to showcase the artistic talent in the region.

"I hope they (the community) appreciate art more, there are a lot of artists in the community and it does bring the community together.”

Residents can purchase a copy of the book for $20 by emailing susanellwood@gmail.com.