Aboriginal Art Award winning entries on show in Ballina
There’s still time to get along to the Northern Rivers Community Gallery in Ballina and see the winners of a prestigious National Aboriginal Art Award.
The NPWS Aboriginal Art Award opened on Saturday 4 July at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery. Over 140 people attended this prestigious event with the awards being announced by highly respected curator and fine arts researcher Tess Allas, who flew in from Sydney for the event.
Lismore artist Penny Evans won first prize for her two ceramic pots ‘Sister’s Dreaming’.
In presenting this award to Penny, Tess Allas commented “the beautiful texture and tactility of the pots and the mark making which had particular reference to Penny’s country” gave these works the winning edge.
Previous winner of the NPWS Art Award Karla Dickens won second prize for her eye-catching mixed media work ‘The Black Mother’.
Karla’s striking works are well-known throughout the region, as well as nationally.
Ms Allas used Karla as an example of one of a number of high-calibre artists working within the Northern Rivers region.
An impressive sculpture constructed of beach debris from recent storm destruction (in the shape of a tepee) takes up most of the gallery foyer. This piece won the Collaborative Award for artists Christine Slabb, Cath Elliot, Marcia Gibbs and Dawn Walker.
Tianna Anderson won the youth award for her emotive mixed media work ‘Grandfather’.
The NPWS Aboriginal Art Award will be on display for the month of July during which time Penny Evans will conduct guided tours of the exhibition. For times and dates please contact the gallery.
For more information on upcoming events please visit or phone the Gallery on 6681 6167. Opening hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm.
PICTURES: The winning entry by Penny Evans, and judge Tess Allas and Karla Dickens in front of Karla’s ‘The Black Mother’.
