Pick your favourite at the prestigious Ipswich Art Awards
11 May 2022
Local art aficionados will be able to vote for their favourite entries at the Ipswich Art Awards for the first time in the event’s 23 year history with the introduction of a People’s Choice Award.
Community, Culture, Arts and Sports Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Fechner said exhibition attendees will now have an official platform to have their say on the works of emerging and established artists.
“People see and appreciate art in different ways and it’s exciting that for the first time in this event’s history, we will see which painting, drawing, pastel, photograph, print, sculpture, or new or mixed media has ignited the public’s imagination,” Cr Fechner said.
“In addition to the recognition as the People’s Choice winner, the selected artist will also receive a $1,500 prize.”
“I cannot wait to see which artwork the community chooses and if it matches my choice.”
Artist registrations for the prestigious awards have increased by 42 per cent from last year, with the 2022 awards set to be among the largest in the event’s history.
“We have 352 artworks going on display from 206 artists all vying for a share of the $16,500 in prize money,” Cr Fechner said.
“With 105 more artworks submitted this year than last the event has become so popular we can’t contain it to a single room, but will instead display the artwork through Level one of council’s beautiful new Nicholas Street Administration building.”
All eight art award categories received increased entries this year, with the largest growth in the Three Dimension category which includes sculpture, pottery, 3D objects and textiles.
“Last year we saw 19 three dimensional pieces submitted, this year there are 46,” Cr Fechner said.
“Best of all, you can purchase any artwork that catches your eye to add a dash of beauty and delight to your home while directly supporting local artists.
“The Ipswich Art Awards is a wonderful celebration of our thriving local visual arts community and wider creative economy.”
Opening night will be held 20 May 2022 and is a ticketed event where judge’s awards will be announced.
The exhibition is then open to the public for free from 21 May and the People’s Choice award will be announced after the exhibition ends on 29 May.
For more information and to purchase opening night tickets, visit www.ipswich.qld.gov.au/explore/whats-on/ipswich-art-awards.