Congratulations to Gallery Artist Kerry Johns for her selection as a Finalist in the 2022 National Capital Art Prize with her painting Tree, Being in the Open Gallery section.
The annual National Capital Art Prize is the first Australia-wide competition for artworks of any subject. National Capital Art Prize is a not-for-profit company established in Canberra in March 2021. Managed by honorary Directors, the company supports and showcases Australian artists and celebrates their skill and diversity through an annual national painting competition. The competition was also established to profile Australia’s National Capital as a cultural hub.
Artist Statement:
The title refers to the fact that the tree is a living individual. Many trees do not draw the attention of humans, but this very old E.Mannifera had the presence of a living creature.
It stands beside the old Federal Highway near Canberra and was saved by chance from the fate of its kind when the highway was re-routed.
From first sight I was aware of its living presence, a being, standing, being looked at. My intention was to paint the tree’s actuality, its independence and its nature by bringing it close to the viewer and treating it tenderly.
The winners of all major prizes will be announced at the Exhibition Opening, Friday 30 September, 6:30pm at the Kangaroo Valley Hall.
For more information about the prize, please visit https://nationalcapitalartprize.com.au/
Exhibition Dates: 23 September – 12 October 2022.
Fitters’ Workshop, Printers Way, Kingston ACT 2604