An exceptional shortlist of finalists for the inaugural Perth Royal Art Prize has been announced, revealing the breadth of talent of Western Australian artists.
Pinjarra artist Robert Ewing has made the finals.
The Prize is for 2D artworks that interpret the theme of landscape and was introduced this year with a substantial prize pool of $23,500.
Under the stewardship of The Royal Agricultural Society of WA Art Curator, Sandra Murray, 283 applicants had their submissions assessed and then shortlisted to 54 finalists.
The Art Prize finalists feature both metropolitan and regional artists, including:
- Jocelyn Brown- Claremont
- Suzanne Codee - Albany
- Jo Darbyshire - Fremantle
- Robert Ewing –Pinjarra
- Douglas Kirsop –Yallingup
- Lori Pensini- Boyup Brook
- Kevin Robertson- Mt Hawthorn
- Tony Windberg – Pemberton
The selection panel consisted of Merrick Belyea, Perth Royal Show Art Committee member; Belinda Cobby, Art Curator and Art Program Coordinator for WA Child and Adolescent Health Service; and Sandra Murray, Art Curator for RASWA and the Perth Royal Art Prize.
Curator Sandra Murray said: “I am impressed with the strong field of finalists for this first year, ranging from high profile artists to mid-career and emerging practitioners. I look forward to what promises to be a captivating and vibrant exhibition.”
The winner will be announced on Monday, September 18 with the IGA Royal Perth Show hosting a public exhibition of the finalists’ artworks at the Wilkinson Gallery, Claremont Showground from 19 to 21 September, 6pm to 8pm with free admission, and again during the 2017 IGA Perth Royal Show, 23 to 30 September.
Perth Royal Art Prize details:
- First Prize: $20,000 (non acquisitive)
- Two x Highly Commended: $1,500 Domestic Transport Art Vouchers, sponsored by IAS Fine Art Logistics
- People’s Choice Award (as voted by the public): $500, sponsored by White Frame
Finalist details can be found on the IGA Perth Royal Show website at perthroyalshow.com.au/95222-2/
