THIS week the Glasshouse in Port Macquarie will open its doors for one of Australia’s most prestigious exhibitions – the Archibald Prize regional tour.
Since its inception in 1921, the Archibald Prize has continued to be one of Australia’s most prestigious art awards and never fails to draw interest, attention and debate. Awarded to the best portrait painting, the Archibald Prize is a who’s who of Australian culture – from politicians to celebrities, sporting heroes to artists.
This year, 868 entries were received and judged by the trustees of the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Ultimately, Del Kathryn Barton was awarded as the winner, receiving $75,000 for her painting, Hugo.
Visitors to the Gallery this December and January can view the 39 finalists’ portraits spread across the lower and mezzanine levels.
2013 finalist James Powditch will be a special guest at the gala opening tomorrow night. James is a mixed media artist who lives and works in Sydney’s inner west. His work combines elements of sculpture, assemblage, painting and architecture and is heavily influenced by cinema history. His 2013 Archibald entry was a portrait of fellow artist and Archibald prize 2011 winner Ben Quilty.
James will also holding a free artist’s talk this Saturday at 10am. The Glasshouse has a full schedule of public programs of talks, workshops and activities for the community throughout the exhibition, including fun and creative sessions for children.
The tour opens tomorrow at 6pm with a gala opening supported by The Observatory Port Macquarie. Tickets are $19.50 ($16.50 members) and available from www.glasshouse.org.au and the Glasshouse box office.
