Emerald Art Awards: Entries Now Open
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Posted on May 31, 2024
The 2024 Emerald Art Awards are now open, with over $10,000 in prize money up for grabs this year.
The annual competition attracts established and emerging artists from across the state and from a variety of mediums, making it a highlight of the Central Highlands cultural calendar.
Last year’s Central Highlands Regional Council Acquisitive Award winner, Geoff Head, shared his words of encouragement for those thinking of entering.
‘Winning last year was a real buzz, it was a compliment, and it shows that people other than my local community appreciate my work,’ he said.
‘Putting yourself out on the line, it’s a good thing. It exposes others to what you’re doing and encourages you to keep working on the things you enjoy,
‘Not only the cash prize but it’s rewarding for artists to exhibit their work, especially in such a nice space like the Emerald Gallery.’
Mayor Janice Moriarty commented on the long-standing event.
‘It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the diverse talent in our community and beyond,’ she said.
‘I encourage all artists, young and old, to participate and share their creativity with us.’
This year’s awards will include seven categories:
Easel-based works Paper-based works Three-dimensional and fibre works Photography Digital art Youth 13 – 18 years (any medium) Junior 12 years and under (any medium)Each category offers a $750 prize for first place and a $250 prize for second place.
The People’s Choice Award will be determined by an online vote, allowing the community to support their favourite pieces. Voting will be open for two weeks from opening night on the Have Your Say Central Highlands website. The winner will be announced via the Central Highlands Galleries Facebook page on Tuesday 20 August 2024.
One eligible artwork from the five open categories will be awarded the prestigious Central Highlands Regional Council Acquisitive Award worth $4000 and enter the council art collection. Artists residing in the Central Highlands are also eligible for the Local Artist Award, which specifically acknowledges our regions’ talented local artists.
The exhibition opening night and awards presentation will be held at the Emerald Art Gallery from 6.00 pm on Friday 2 August 2024. The exhibition will then be on display until 11 September 2024.
Entries close 5.00 pm Friday 12 July 2024. For more information, and to submit your works click here.
Pictured: 2023 Winner: Geoff Head.