Ivanhoe gallery announces art prize finalists for Works on Paper

More than 400 artists were vying for a spot in Ivanhoe’s Hatch gallery’s prestigious Works on Paper Prize but only 40 made the cut. With the 2019 exhibition now open, see what artwork took out the top spot.

Wendy Black with her work at the Hatch gallery exhibit. Picture: Rob Leeson.

Ivanhoe’s Hatch Contemporary Arts Space has launched it’s prestigious exhibition of finalists for the Banyule Award for Works on Paper Prize.

The national competition received a record 439 entries this year, with 40 finalists chosen for the exhibition built around the theme of ‘threshold’.

Gallery curator Steph Neoh said the theme encouraged artists to submit artworks that explore social, cultural, political or environmental issues.

“The world stands at a threshold of change for better or worse and it’s up to us,” she said.

“The artists in this exhibition are making their statements about the state of the world.”

The biennial prize has been running since 2003 and Ms Neoh said the number of entries was steadily increasing.

Artworks from the 2019 exhibit. Picture: Rob Leeson

Finalist Wendy Black interpreted the theme as to be the threshold of animal extinction and said it was an honour to be selected.

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“Some of the artworks are overwhelming and take your breath away,” she said.

“It’s a high quality show and these are very proficient artists.

“I encourage everyone to see the show.”

This year’s $10,000 first prize went to Robert Fielding for his work Ngapartji-Ngapartji.

Artwork from the 2019 Works on Paper exhibition. Picture: Rob Leeson.

The exhibition runs until October 19 at HATCH Contemporary Arts Space, Ivanhoe.

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