The Calleen Art Prize Winner Announced

A panel of industry experts filtered through an overwhelming response of 401 entries, carefully selecting 56 finalists for the Calleen Art Prize. This year’s panel included Georgia Connolly, Head of Regional Engagement, Access and Learning at the Art Gallery of New South Wales; Bridget Guthrie, Director, Tamworth Regional Gallery & Museums and John Cheeseman, Partner, Interchange Art Projects.

Over the last 49 years, The Calleen Art Prize has been pivotal in showcasing the best of Australian contemporary art. The prize was founded by Cowra Art patron Patricia Fagan with the support of the Calleen Trust. Their aim was to foster the unique voices of emerging artists all around Australia. There is no defined theme or subject required in order to enter the prize which allows a high level of individuality as artists have the freedom to showcase their signature work. The prize is exhibited annually at the Cowra Regional Art Gallery in New South Wales and has quickly become a crowd favourite.

Announced by Georgia Connolly at the exhibition opening on Saturday 5 September, Anthony Cahill was awarded the winning prize of $30,000. Based in Sydney, Cahill is represented by Day Gallery and teaches at the National Art School. As an individual not bound to a specific genre, Cahill’s paintings capture the childlike essence of focusing on the absurdity of everyday life. Beginning with a memory or photograph, Cahill’s work expands naturally as his imagination runs wild. The viewer is confronted with an extraordinary scene which feels both familiar and uncanny. As a master of non-conformity, is it no surprise Anthony Cahill was awarded the winning prize for his thought-provoking painting A Question of Timing. This artwork will become a permanent fixture in the Calleen Collection at Cowra Regional Art Gallery.

Alongside the winner, a highly commended badge was awarded to four artworks by Jane Tonks, Sarah Waghorn, Michael Simms and Leah Thiessen.

Visitors to the gallery will be able to vote for their favourite artwork as the Calleen People’s Choice Award is announced at the close of the exhibition. The winner will be awarded a prize of $1,000. The Calleen Art Prize will be on display at the Cowra Regional Art Gallery from 6 September – 18 October. Free Entry.