For the first time since the new media category was introduced in 2023, a compelling digital work has taken out the top gong in the Sunshine Coast National Art Prize.
Todd Fuller, the Major Prize Winner of the 2024 Sunshine Coast National Art Prize with his artwork
The 2024 major prize winner, taking home $25,000, is Sydney-based artist Todd Fuller, with his video No use crying over ripped lace.
Todd Fuller explained the work tells the story of a night out in 2017 when a post-performance kebab for three Sydney drag stars (Ivy League, Coco Jumbo and Vybe), ended in an altercation.
“Drag queens often take on the role of protectors for the LGBTQIA+ community, but in this case, they saved the life of Ivan Finn when they intervened in a gay-bashing,” Mr Fuller said.
“Told through the eyes of Coco Jumbo, this body of work marks another moment in history when drag queens led the way.”
Still from Todd Fuller’s animation
The coveted People’s Choice Award, as voted by the public both online and in the gallery, went to Melbourne-based artist Amanda Western, for Country Lane, a lino print.
Guest judge Judy Ewington said the quality and diversity of the 40 finalist works spoke to the significance and notoriety of the Sunshine Coast National Art Prize.
“The standard was exceptional and thanks to the introduction of the new media category, we saw cutting edge works from across Australia in all categories,” Ms Ewington said.
The much-anticipated Vernissage and Launch party was held on Thursday, the 22nd of August, and brought together an exciting mix of artists, fellow sponsors, art lovers and our own VIP guests and Argon Law team to celebrate the incredible talent on display.
The exclusive preview showcased the 40 stunning artworks from this year’s finalists. Each was a masterpiece in its own right, and reading the stories behind the artists’ creations offered a perspective that set the scene and gave an insight into the dedication and passion of each artist.
Thank you to our VIP guests for their company and sharing this great experience with us.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the Sunshine Coast National Art Prize celebrated and honoured some of the very best contemporary 2D and new media arts practice from across the nation.
“Together, the 40 finalist artworks create a vibrant and diverse interpretation of our 2024 world – through the eyes of artists,” Mayor Natoli said.
“This exhibition provides the chance to experience some of the best contemporary art in Australia, right here on our very own Sunshine Coast.”
“I’m delighted, but not at all surprised that five Sunshine Coast-based artists feature in the exhibition, further acknowledging the thriving landscape of arts in our region,” Mayor Natoli said.
“We are well known as a region for our rich pool of talented artists, five of whom were finalists in this year’s prize, and our national art prize showcases our significant contemporary arts landscape.”
Sarah Mufford Leheriya | 2023 | polymer acrylic, Flashe and graphite on canvas | 122 x 122cm
Mayor Natoli said the major prize-winning work has been acquired into the Sunshine Coast Art Collection.
“The major prizewinning artwork will be acquired into the Sunshine Coast Art Collection to ensure future generations will enjoy this cultural legacy.”
“Our growing collection of works is a legacy for future generations, comprising more than 900 works and worth over $2 million,” Mayor Natoli said. “The art prize is made possible thanks to Council’s continued investment and the generous support from local sponsors, philanthropists and partners.”
Logan Moody, Brunswick | 2023 | stencil and aerosol on canvas | 61 x 70cm
Sunshine Coast Council’s Caloundra Regional Gallery director Jo Duke said whether finalists used digital or physical media, the essence of the art prize remained with the 40 contemporary works evoking a range of emotions – from celebration and enlightenment to confrontation and surprise.
“The 2024 exhibition features paintings, both acrylic and oils, with artists leaning towards realism and expressive modes of making, telling stories and sharing memories,” Ms Duke said.
“There was an increase in moving image entries this year, with artists using the medium to best advantage, and all telling vastly different stories.
“All the artworks are extraordinary examples of their maker’s understanding of their chosen medium, from exquisite drawings, vibrant paintings, astonishing etchings and wonderful moving images.
“I have no doubt visitors to the show will enjoy this year’s Sunshine Coast National Art Prize 2024 exhibition.
Sarah Hickey, Head Gardener & Bloom Ranger | 2024 | oil on canvas | 76 x 115cm
Jo Duke said the continued investment from sponsors and supporters made the prize possible.
“Thanks, as always, to our generous major prize funding partner Argon Law, Sunshine Coast, and longstanding sponsors, the De Deyne family, as well as the Caloundra Chamber of Commerce, Coastline BMW, Montville Country Cabins, International Art Services and Friends of the Gallery, Caloundra.” Ms Duke said.
“Thanks to our generous major prize funding partner Argon Law, Sunshine Coast Council and longstanding sponsors, the De Deyne family, as well as the Caloundra Chamber of Commerce, Coastline BMW, Montville Country Cabins, International Art Services and Friends of the Gallery, Caloundra.
“This year we are privileged to have the esteemed Julie Ewington as our guest judge.”
“She is a renowned curator and writer with extensive experience working within the curatorial field across Australia.”
We extend our thanks to the Caloundra Regional Gallery organisers for curating such a magnificent exhibition, as well as to our fellow sponsors for their continued support of the arts. A big congratulations to all the finalists who have their work in the running for the prestigious $25,000 major prize! We will look forward to seeing what you create for next year’s art prize!
Learn more about Argon Law’s continued contribution to the Arts on the Sunshine Coast:
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