Guyra artist Brian Irving is no stranger to competitions and exhibitions, but says he was particularly pleased to be named once again a finalist in this year’s Parliament Aboriginal Art Prize.
Although he missed out on the award, he says he has made the final list three times and, at 67, believes he is “getting better with age”.
“When I make it to the finals I have a feeling in my chest, a very good feeling,” he says. “It makes me feel good and happy with what I do. I feel like a kid when I get the letter. I jump up and down and am very pleased.”
Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay, who attended the announcement of the winner at Parliament House, congratulated Mr Irving on his success.
“There are a lot of entries for this $40,000 prize and you have to be of a high standard to be selected in the list of finalists,” he said. “Brian continues to produce wonderful work and it’s great to see it on display in Parliament House with the other finalists.”
Brian Irving started painting around 10 years ago and says he was inspired by the work of the super star of Aboriginal art, Clifford Possum.
“Although I liked doing landscapes I took to dot painting,” he says. “Hopefully I can emulate Clifford, who was just the best.”
On principle, Irving enters as many competitions as he can around the north north-west, the north coast region and in southern Queensland and is often successful.
“It’s the name of the game, you’ve got to give it a go,” he said. “You’ve got to be fair dinkum and also make sure your work is properly presented.”
Some of his works are held at the Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place and are on display at Rafters in Guyra.
