Few exhibitions can lay claim to the level of controversy, intrigue and public debate than the Archibald Prize.
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But in a visual feast of poignant portraiture and abstract authenticity, it’s exceedingly difficult to reject the vast appeal of, what is known as, Australia’s best known art prize.\
The works of the 2014 Archibald Prize have made their way to the Maitland Regional Art Gallery to be installed for the show’s opening on January 17.
“The Archibald has been going for such a long time, so it has that historical attraction and there’s also an element of controversy attached to it,” gallery curator Kim Blunt said.
“Also many people have opinions about the works and are more than happy to express them which is great.
“But, also, this exhibition is very accessible, people know who the subjects are and the subjects often have very interesting stories as well.”
The exhibition features Fiona Lowry’s winning portrait of architect Penelope Seidler and Vincent Fantauzzo’s exquisite image of his son Luca.
The latter took out the people’s choice award.
The work of the 2009 Archibald Prize finalists was shown at the Maitland gallery in 2010, but this time around the art show will be revealed in its entirety.
“We do have to compete with other galleries from the area for this, so it’s great when our turn comes and we get to show it,” Ms Blunt said.
“This time it’s unusual because there are 54 works, the largest Archibald Prize that’s ever been shown and this time we’re getting the complete show.”
Since its inception in 1921, the Archibald Prize has continued to be one of Australia’s most prestigious art awards and represents the who’s who of Australian culture – from politicians to celebrities, sporting heroes to artists.
The travelling exhibition also includes a dual image of actor Cate Blanchett, a poster-style creation of musician Nick Cave and Tim Storrier’s portrait of the iconic Les Patterson.
- The Archibald Prize opens on January 17.
The Young Archies
Budding artists between the ages of five and 18 are
invited to submit a portrait for the youth-based spin-off of the Archibald Prize 2014 Regional Tour at Maitland Regional Art Gallery.
Titled the Young Archie competition, the initiative is opened to children and young people from five to 18 years.
The competition will be judged by judges chosen by the Maitland Regional Art Gallery and five finalists from the each of the four categories will be exhibited.
Submissions must be received by 5pm on January 23.
- For more information visit www.mrag.org.au.
