Laura Matthews has won the Naked and Nude Art Prize 2019 for her work Sea Creatures.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Announced at the exhibition's launch at the Manning Regional Art Gallery, judge Denise Mimmocchi, senior curator of Australian Art at the Art Gallery of NSW, described Laura's entry as "beautifully composed".
"It may be a landscape (or seascape) but it is one that pivots around the formation of the two female figures. Their connection to each other and to their beach setting is the true subject of the work.
"Despite the agitated surface texture of this painting; one that encapsulates the perpetual motion of the ocean setting, the work exudes a great sense of calm and intimacy.
"The figures here do indeed appear as 'sea creatures' as they are drawn into their environment, and lead us, as viewers, in with them.
"The painting is ultimately successful due to the strong sense of the physicality of the figures and the human connection between them and their environment."
The Naked and Nude Art Prize is the only art award of its kind in Australia and attracts entries from across Australia from artists at all stages of their careers and working in all mediums.
"The exhibition opening was a huge success, a great crowd with many artists travelling far and wide to attend," said art gallery director Rachel Piercy.
The theme Naked and Nude is an evocative platform for creative inspiration, and artists delve into representations of the human form.
With a history dating back to ancient times across many cultures, the exposed human figure is one the most enduring themes in the visual arts, and remains relevant to artists across all disciplines.
The People's Choice award of $1000 will be awarded at the conclusion of the exhibition, and gives the public a chance to have its say.
"We're inviting everyone to come and view the exhibition, and participate in the 'People's Choice' award by nominating your favourite entry," said Rachel.
The judge highly commended two works; Ainslie Wright's Ripped for the sense of both trauma and strength which she inscribes on the figure, and Michael Simms Hostage for the arresting sense of luminosity with which he paints flesh as it emerges from darkness.
The lucrative event this year carries a $30,000 acquisitive prize, with the winning entry acquired by the Friends of the Gallery and donated to the Manning Regional Art Gallery permanent collection.
"We'd like to extend our thanks to Dr Philip Walkom and Mrs Dusty Walkom OAM, gallery patrons and major sponsors of the prize since its inception," said Rachel.
Entry to the Naked and Nude exhibition is free. It continues at the Manning Regional Art Gallery until Sunday October 13.
The gallery, located in Macquarie Street, Taree, is open 10am to 4pm Wednesday to Saturday and 1pm to 4pm Sunday.
While you're with us...
Did you know the Manning River Times is now offering breaking news alerts and a weekly email newsletter? Keep up-to-date with all the local news: sign up here.