An “uncanny” collection of artwork is on display as part of the region’s flagship art prize, the Sunshine Coast Art Prize 2022.
The works of the 40 finalists explore the imperfections of the human form, mental state and the resilience of nature, among other thought-provoking themes.
The exhibition will remain on display at the Caloundra Regional Gallery until October 16, 2022.
The public can also vote for their favourite piece in the People’s Choice prize, with a $100 Gallery Store voucher sponsored by Caloundra Chamber of Commerce.
Sunshine Coast Council Arts Portfolio Councillor Rick Baberowski said the exhibition was intense and exciting.
“The selected artworks are an honest and interesting reflection of our times,” Cr Baberowski said.
“For me it’s the most complex representation of contemporary art we have attracted in recent years—it’s a mix I find inspiring and remarkably uplifting.
“The timing of the art prize, on exhibition during the school holidays, makes it especially valuable, allowing our next generations to explore this expression of our culture and maybe further trigger their creativity and interest in art.”
Caloundra Regional Gallery Manager and Curator Jo Duke said the Sunshine Coast Art Prize 2022 was again full of movement.
“The 40 finalist works are filled with memory of people and places and a great mix of realism and abstraction,” Ms Duke said.
“There will be works that will take your breath away, works for contemplation and others that will question what you see, and create conversation.”
Sunshine Coast Art Prize Winners will be announced by this year’s guest judge Ellie Buttrose, Curator, Contemporary Australian Art, QAGOMA on October 6, 2022.
Ms Buttrose will award the recipients of the Major prize, Highly Commended and Artist Residency, while the People’s Choice prize is chosen by visitors to the exhibition.
To vote on the art prize visit the gallery or go to gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
Prizes and supporters
- Major prize $25,000 – supported by major sponsor Argon Law Sunshine Coast and Sunshine Coast Council
- Highly Commended prize $5000 – sponsored by the De Deyne Family
- People’s Choice prize: $2,500 – sponsored by the Caloundra Chamber of Commerce
- Art prize vehicles – supported by Coastline BMW
- Artist Residency award – supported by Montville Country Cabins.
Caloundra Regional Gallery is open from 10am, Tuesday to Sunday and located at 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra.
