The East Gippsland Youth Art Prize recognised the talents of young artists in the region. An audience of 70 gathered at East Gippsland Art Gallery for the exhibition opening on Wednesday 25 October, hosted by councillors Trevor Stowe and Kirsten van Diggele.
The Youth Art Prize provides a platform for local creatives aged 12-25. It gives them great exposure as exhibiting artists, bridging the gap between young artists and the broader community further helping foster the next generation of artists.
"The Youth Art Prize has consistently grown in stature," East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Tom Crook noted. "The quality of the artworks is remarkable, making the judges' task of choosing winners a challenging one each year."
"Engagement with the arts can foster the development of numerous valuable skills and qualities in young individuals, which are highly regarded by both leaders and employers. These encompass creative thinking, the ability to solve complex problems, motivation, and academic excellence. And it bolsters the confidence of our young people," he added.
This year's exhibition displayed a high standard of art with 35 entries across various categories: 2D, 3D, digital/photography, and Indigenous art.
Category winners:
2D: "Forget Me Not" by Kayla J
3D: "Bust" by Danielle M
Digital/photography: "Wonderland" by Jorja B
Indigenous: "Birth of a Baby Girl" by Jordyn T
Age group winners:
Age 12-15: "Frost" by Rusty H
Age 16-20: "Between Worlds" by Lily N
Age 21-25: "I'm Stressed" by Romy R
Special mentions:
"Portrait of Adam Clayton" by Keara C
"Unusual Situations" by Leah B
"Street Vibes" by Danielle B
Each age group and category winner were awarded a $300 prize.
A People's Choice Award will be determined through a public vote and voting is open until the end of November.
The exhibition is on display at The Forge Theatre and Arts Hub until the end of November.
Viewings are available by appointment Wednesdays or Thursdays by contacting Chloe Peters or Andrea Court at (03) 5153 9500.
The exhibition will then be shown at Orbost Exhibition Centre from December 11, 2023 to January 5, 2024.
