On Thursday 7 October, Argon Law and special guests were treated to a Sunshine Coast Art Prize Exhibition private gallery tour with Caloundra Regional Gallery Curator and Director Jo Duke. This was followed by an inspiring talk by the Sunshine Coast Art Prize People's Choice Award winner Amanda Shadforth and her work ' Between A Rock And A Hard Place 2'.
Jo Duke shared the stories behind many of the artworks including the art prize winners, emerging artists, multidisciplinary artists, a Torres Strait Island artist, and First Nations artists. The high calibre of these impressive 40 artworks that featured a range of genres including painting, drawing, photography, printing, textiles and assemblage all brought a new perspective on what’s been happening in our world.
It was wonderful to listen to Amanda share her journey growing up on a cane farm, always outdoors with her older brothers and inspired by nature. She remembers her mother recognising her creativity at a young age as she would throw crayons into her cot. Her first job began as a busy sign writer and then began her career as an Australian contemporary artist, enjoying success domestically and abroad with her vast body of highly acclaimed work exhibited in galleries internationally. Eight years ago she transitioned to the digital space with the creation of Oracle Fox and become one of Australia’s prominent fashion influencers and an internationally recognised industry leader. During 2020, Amanda spent time with her family and re-connected with her love of painting and created her winning piece.
“Balance has always been important to me, whether it be in the metaphysical sense or even the literal, I find that seeking out balance is a challenge that I spend much time contemplating.
Amanda said she was “so humbled to have been selected by the community and my peers”.
“My love of painting comes from a place where I hope to leave a lasting impression, an impression that stirs emotions such as joy, curiosity and optimism.
“Winning this award exemplifies that my work as an artist is touching people in a way that I’ve always dreamed of and I couldn’t be more honoured."
The Sunshine Coast Art Prize exhibition closed on Sunday 10 October and as major sponsor of this prestigious prize, we have seen the positive impact that supporting this award has had on our arts community and growing region. We have also enjoyed sharing the stories of our local finalists and the team at the Caloundra Art Gallery and the Sunshine Coast Council have done a tremendous job in making this another successful year.
Click here to view the Sunshine Coast Art Prize 2021 exhibition catalogue flipbook.
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