The Sunshine Coast National Art Prize 2024 exhibition opens August 23, delivering a stunning visual showcase from some of Australia’s best contemporary 2D and moving image artists.

The exhibition, open until October 12 at Caloundra Regional Gallery, celebrates 40 works by established artists from across the country.

Finalist artwork by David Creed. 'DC Style Fylez Solves 100 Fashion Dilemmas' 2023. still from video

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said together, the artworks created a vibrant and diverse interpretation of our 2024 world – through the eyes of artists.

“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.

“The major prizewinning artwork will be acquired into the Sunshine Coast Art Collection to ensure future generations will enjoy this cultural legacy.

“The art prize is made possible thanks to Council’s continued investment and the generous support from local sponsors, philanthropists and partners.”

People’s Choice Award

Veronica Cay eavesdropping on the domestic | 2024 | mixed media | 152 x 102cm

Voting for the coveted Peoples’ Choice award is open online and in the gallery until September 22. Works can be viewed on the gallery website.

Winners

Winners in all categories will be announced by guest judge and renowned curator Julie Ewington, on October 3.

The major prize winner, sponsored by Argon Law and Sunshine Coast Council, will receive $25,000, with the winning work acquired into the Sunshine Coast Art Collection.

About the exhibition

Sarah Mufford Leheriya | 2023 | polymer acrylic, Flashe and graphite on canvas | 122 x 122cm

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.

“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.”

Logan Moody, Brunswick | 2023 | stencil and aerosol on canvas | 61 x 70cm

Key Dates

People Choice Voting:          Open NOW until September 22
Exhibition:                              August 23 – October 13
Collage Workshop                 August 25, 10am - 1pm. Registration essential
Kids Art Attack                      September 7, 11am - 1pm. Registration essential
Winners’ Announcement:      October 3

Sarah Hickey, Head Gardener & Bloom Ranger | 2024 | oil on canvas | 76 x 115cm

Caloundra Regional Gallery

Stay up to date with all the latest news, events and exhibitions by subscribing to the e-newsletter at gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au or following @caloundraregionalgallery on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Caloundra Regional Gallery, owned and operated by Sunshine Coast Council, is free to enter, open from 10am, Tuesday to Sunday, and located at 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra.

Local Contemporary Art Prize 2024 – 2D Excellence Award – Michael Ciavarella