Peoples’ Choice voting open for National Art Prize

40 of the best have been selected

Following a nationwide call, 40 of the best contemporary 2D and moving image artists have been selected as finalists in the 2024 Sunshine Coast National Art Prize (SCNAP).

More than 450 entries were received from every state and territory in the country, with five Sunshine Coast artists featuring in the finalist mix.

All 40 finalist artworks can be viewed at gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au where, until September 22, I community is encouraged to vote for their favourite piece in the People’s Choice category.

Voters go into the draw for a chance to win a $100 gift voucher for the Caloundra Regional Gallery Store and the winning artist in this category will receive $2500, sponsored by Caloundra Chamber of Commerce.

SCNAP finalists from the Sunshine Coast

• Zartisha Davis (Kabi Kabi), Golden Beach, ‘Mooloola Middens 2023’
• Veronica Cay, Buderim, ‘eavesdropping on the domestic 2024’
• David Green, Buderim, ‘Andy come in and get your tea 2023’
• Raoul Slater from Pomona, ‘Listen to Me 2023’
• Kell’e O'Dempsey, Coolum Beach, ‘Wish you were here in pink with eyeball fish’’

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the Sunshine Coast National Art Prize celebrated and honoured some of the very best contemporary 2D and new media arts practice from across the nation.

“Together, the 40 finalist artworks create a vibrant and diverse interpretation of our 2024 world – through the eyes of artists,” Mayor Natoli said.

“This exhibition provides the chance to experience some of the best contemporary art in Australia, right here on our very own Sunshine Coast.

“I invite everyone to enjoy the collection online or in person during the seven-week exhibition at the Caloundra Regional Gallery.

“The exhibition opens on August 23, and I know visitors will enjoy this wonderful showcase.”

Exhibition opens August 23

Sunshine Coast Council’s Caloundra Regional Gallery Director Jo Duke said the continued investment from sponsors and supporters made the prize possible.

“Thanks, as always, to our generous major prize funding partner Argon Law, Sunshine Coast, 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.” Ms Duke said.

Key Dates

• People Choice Voting:          open NOW until September 22
• Exhibition:                                August 23 – October 13
• Winners’ Announcement:     October 3

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

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