Last weekend, the Woollam Art on Show Awards 2024 brought the Mackay art community together in a celebration of creativity and talent. The event, which spanned from August 2nd to August 5th, showcased over 250 works from local and interstate artists, reflecting the rich tapestry of artistic expression in the region.
The prestigious Overall Winner of the Woollam Art on Show Award, with a prize of $3,000, was Bradley Short for his piece "Plein Air Study Eungella."
Local artist Sam Pennisi won the Local Artist Award with his work "Banksia Banquet," earning a prize of $1,200.
In the Easel Painting Award category, Catherine Clark Dowden took first prize of $1,000 for "Like My Mama," while Bonny Shore's "Across the Bay" and Loren Boyd's "The Opening Act" received Highly Commended and Commended awards, respectively.
The Daly Bay Works on Paper Award saw Andrea Michele Chapman win first prize with "Billy and his Kid," and Pamela Berrigan secure second place with "King of the Bush." Katherine Murray’s "Keswick Island" was commended in this category.
Susi Muddiman OAM, Director, Gallery & Visual Arts at HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast and a highly esteemed guest judge, expressed her delight in being part of the event.
“It’s lovely to be here in Mackay and really nice to see how much community enthusiasm there is for big art prizes like this.
“Events like this bring people together and it’s a celebration of creative talent and spirit within the region,” she said.
When asked about her judging criteria, Ms Muddiman said, “I often look for a narrative to see if the work is telling me a story. My eye is drawn into it, and I can follow where it’s taking me.
“Perspective is really important, and sometimes it’s about the expression that the artist puts into the application.”
Art On Show coordinator Melissa Broadhurst highlighted the event’s growth over the years.
“This is our 18th year, and it’s grown significantly.
“We’re very proud of this event… it really brings the community together.”
The event also featured live demonstrations and activities by local artists' groups, including Pioneer Potters, Mackay Art Society, Printbank Mackay and the newly introduced Mackay Yarn Bombers.
Artspace Mackay's curator, Lauren Turton, hosted a floor talk on artists' books, sharing insights and highlighting the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection's treasures.
All 250 paintings on display are available for purchase.
Please contact artonshow@mackayshow.com.au for further enquiries.
Susi Muddiman OAM, Director, Gallery & Visual Arts at HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast and a guest judge
Art On Show coordinator Melissa Broadhurst
The winning masterpiece from Bradley Short, called “Plein Air Study Eungella” - awarded $3,000. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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