Renewed local art prize showcases region’s best

This year's Local Contemporary Art Prize will see 40 local artists exhibit works in the hopes of taking home the prestigious $10,000 Best in Show Acquisitive Award.  

Presented by Sunshine Coast Council’s Caloundra Regional Gallery in partnership with the Friends of the Regional Gallery, the exhibition is on from March 22 to May 5 and showcases a diverse array of artists working in 2d and 3d.

The much-loved art prize exhibition launch and winners' announcement will be held on March 21 with tickets available on the gallery website. Mingle with exhibiting artists and vote for People’s Choice to go in the draw to win a $50 gallery store gift voucher.

Friends Regional Gallery Caloundra Inc. President Fiona Heiner said that when the local art prize was first created in 2014, it was known as Local Artist – Local Content.

“Now in its 10th year, the prize has been given fresh energy via its new name Local Contemporary Art Prize, an increase to the prize money and broadened criteria to allow for more diverse content,” Ms Heiner said.

“Enthusiasm for the new Local Contemporary Art Prize 2024 has been reflected in the significant increase in entries this year with the works of the 40 finalists selected from a record 280 entries!”

Winners will share in $17,000 prizemoney, thanks to this year’s sponsors, Mary Henzell Investments, Localvolts, Geoff Lyons Solicitors and Friends of the Gallery.

Caloundra Regional Gallery Curator Jo Duke said one of the most coveted awards was the People’s Choice Award which visitors can vote for during the exhibition or via the website.

“Also on show in the gallery is the Local Student Art Prize, which gives students in three age categories the opportunity to submit and show their works,” Ms Duke said.

“As our emerging local artists, I’m always impressed by the skill displayed from children as young as five years old.

“The abilities of these younger artists are truly amazing and bodes well for the future of the arts on the Sunshine Coast.”

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

Caloundra Regional Gallery is open from 10am, Tuesday to Sunday, and located at 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra.