Published on Monday, 18 February 2019 at 3:08:04 PM
Local artists shone at the Geraldton Regional Art Gallery on Saturday night as the Midwest Art Prize officially launched and celebrated the winners of 2019’s exhibition.
In a first for the prize, local filmmaker Zac Bruce was awarded the City of Greater Geraldton Overall Award for his 10 minute video The Wunder Years.
Home grown talent continued to gain focus as William Upchurch secured the Incite Security Midwest Artist Award for his piece Having to Leave, and Elliot Brown and Tyron Merritt were announced as dual winners of the RedFM Youth Award.
The Rio Tinto Midwest Aboriginal Award was presented to Martumili artist Corban Clause Williams for his creation Kaalpa Well 23.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn reflected on the celebration.
“What an amazing night for our local artists who absolutely dazzled in this year’s Midwest Art Prize,” he said.
“A huge congratulations to Zac - the first local to take out the prize - as well as William, Elliot, Tyron and Corban.
“It was great to see so many people come and celebrate the occasion at the Gallery. There were even times when hundreds were lined up outside trying to get in.”
More than 750 art lovers attended the exhibition opening, which is on showcase until Saturday 30 March. Free catalogues showcasing the artworks can be picked up at the Gallery and visitors are invited to vote for their favourite artwork for the People’s Choice Award.
Art Gallery of Western Australia Curator Carly Lane, Fremantle Arts Centre Director Jim Cathcart and Perth Institute of Contemporary Art Exhibitions Manager Charlotte Hickson had the tough job of selecting winners on the day.
The City of Greater Geraldton would like to congratulate all the artists featured in this year’s exhibition and also thank sponsors Rio Tinto, RedFM, Ian Blayney Local MLA and Incite Security.
Photo caption: Local filmmaker Zac Bruce was awarded the City of Greater Geraldton Overall Award for his 10 minute video The Wunder Years.
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