A compelling video work has won the churchie national emerging art prize for Sydney artist, Liberté Grace.
Liberté Grace’s The Perfect Boy Myth (version 1) (2013) was chosen as overall winner from 32 finalists.
She receives the $15,000 cash prize donated by Brand + Slater Architects.
‘The churchie’ is recognised as one of Australia’s most rewarding emerging art awards and this year’s judge, leading Sydney contemporary art dealer and gallerist, Roslyn Oxley, commented:
“The Perfect Boy Myth was such a good work, strong, mature, and highly sophisticated”.
“It’s gutsy and you can see her dedication to the project. In the production you can see control over her art form, and I was impressed with her direction, especially in getting the actors to respond in a narrative that is quite abstract.
“There is a tension in the film. It is thought provoking and the story leaves you guessing — which is a good thing. I have a feeling that Libertéwill have a great future,” said Roslyn.
Two high commendations were also awarded, each with a cash prize of $1000, to:
– Annika Koops from Melbourne, Vic (b. 1983, Ulverstone, Tasmania) for her digital photograph, Sissy (2012).
– Becc Orszag from Melbourne, Vic (b.1986, Melbourne, Victoria) for her three drawings titled, Do as we do (2011-12), My Other Half (2011-12), and The Sisters (2012).
This year the award attracted 586 entries in a field of almost 300 artists from across Australia.
There are 32 finalists, and 37 artworks* are being exhibited at ‘the churchie’ exhibition at Griffith University Art Gallery until September 7.
GUAG Acting Director, Naomi Evans, who was on the selection committee, described Liberté Grace’s entry as “a compelling short film”.
“The story contains elements of beauty and brutality, and Grace’s lighting and art direction combined with a captivating lead actor makes a powerful statement on big themes, like the misuse of power,” said Naomi.
All the artworks in the exhibition are for sale and range in price from $190 to more than $6500.
Exhibition:
Griffith University Art Gallery
Queensland College of Art
226 Grey Street, South Bank
Exhibition hours:
Tuesday to Saturday 11am – 4pm
Free admission