Basil Sellers Art Prize 2020, winner announced

Peter Matthew Yates has won the Basil Sellers Art Prize 2020 with his “beautifully executed” small oil painting Connections.

On hearing of his success, the figurative artist said he was thrilled, and considered the award a promising start in a lifelong quest to hone his painterly skills.

“It’s become an obsessions for me,” said Peter who fits his daily art practice around his job as a marine biologist.

While Peter usually draws from life he admits he had an online sitter for Connections, which he created from within his parent’s garage.

“I think some of the happiness I was feeling during the time spent with my parents has made its way into this painting,” said Peter.

Prize patron Basil Sellers announced the winner online. This is the ninth edition of the biennial prize and exhibition, with the winner awarded $20,000. Judge Daniel Soma said he kept being drawn back to the winning work.

“I was struck by the honest interpretation of the current social climate, and its beautiful execution,” said Daniel.

Eurobodalla Mayor announced Raewyn Lawrence as the winner of the $5,000 Eurobodalla Prize. Raewyn also receives a solo exhibition at the Bas and her oil on canvas Smoke will be added to Eurobodalla Council’s art collection.

The Basil Sellers Art Prize exhibition runs at the Bas from 10 October to 8 November at Moruya’s Basil Sellers Exhibition Centre. For more information visit www.thebas.com.au