For the first time in its more than 100-year history, Australia's most prestigious portraiture prize, the Archibald Prize, is coming to Alice Springs marking a major cultural milestone for the Northern Territory.
Under the CLP Finocchiaro Government, the Archibald Prize 2024 exhibition will take centre stage at the Araluen Arts Centre from 24 April to 15 June 2025, offering art lovers, locals, and visitors the chance to experience remarkable portraits of notable Australians who have shaped our nation's social, cultural, and political landscape.
With 57 stunning portraits on display, including the 2024 winning artwork - Laura Jones' portrait of author and conservationist Tim Winton - this exhibition will showcase some of Australia's most distinguished contemporary artists.
Notably, two Central Australian artists, Adrian Jangala Robertson and Thea Anamara Perkins, are among the finalists, making this event even more special for the local arts community.
Minister for Arts Jinson Charls welcomed the arrival of the Archibald Prize to Alice Springs.
"For Central Australians, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to see Australia's most celebrated portraiture exhibition right here in Alice Springs," said Mr Charls.
"We also hope it will encourage visitors to travel to the Red Centre to experience world-class art alongside the region's rich cultural and natural wonders."
Hosting the Archibald Prize Exhibition is expected to significantly increase visitation to the Araluen Arts Centre, attracting art lovers, tourists and first-time gallery goers.
Previous regional venues have seen a doubling of attendance, generating hundreds of thousands of dollars in ticket sales and even more in economic activity for local businesses, tourism and hospitality.
Adding to the excitement, Araluen Arts Centre will also be hosting the Young Archie Mparntwe competition, inviting aspiring young artists aged 5-18 to submit portraits of someone significant to them.
Winners in each age category will receive a $50 voucher, and their work will be proudly displayed alongside Australia's most esteemed portrait artists.
"I'm also excited to see the talents of young Territorians entering the Young Archie Mparntwe competition. I can't wait to see their hard work and creativity line the walls of the Araluen Arts Centre. Maybe some of them will be future Archibald Prize winners," added Mr Charls.
Tickets for the Archibald Prize 2024 exhibition are now on sale at here
Entries for the Young Archie Mparntwe competition are open until 31 March 2025.
For more details on how to enter, visit Young Archie Mparntwe | Araluen Arts Centre here
