Ninety-eight young Picassos tried their hands at exhibiting works in the Finite Gallery Junior Art Prize 2019.
Owner of the Caves Beach gallery, Leslie Duffin, said returning judge Suzanne Reid (Newcastle Art Space) had her work cut out for her this year.
“The calibre of entries was very high,” Duffin said.
So high, the gallery awarded 30 prizes overall, including many highly commended.
Winners of each section, announced on opening day on Saturday, were: Ruby O’Dwyer (Kindergarten-Year 2), Lacey Joyce (Years 3-4),
Alana Larson (Years 5-6), Amy Carroll (Years 7-8), Eva Hansen (Years 9-10) and Amelia Bishop-Hellyer (Years 11-12).
Entries were received from students across the Hunter in a range of mediums, including rock art, ceramics, photography, 3D sculpture, acrylic painting and collage.
The only constraint to artists’ imaginations was size.
“My background is in early childhood education, so I love to encourage the kids to have a go – as an adult artist, I know that takes courage,” Duffin added.
“It’s not for everyone, but it’s good for them to learn to take criticism constructively as part of the artistic journey.
“It was especially heartening to see the younger kids taking part.”
The Junior Art Prize exhibition is on display until Sunday 13 October to coincide with the school holidays, throughout which the gallery will hold workshops.
Finite Gallery is located at 60 Caves Beach Road, Caves Beach. Phone 0419 471 660 or visit finitegallery.com for more information.
– By: Georgia Osland
More stories:
