Footscray Art Prize
The nationally recognised Footscray Art Prize returned in 2023.
This is a biennial visual art prize for contemporary artworks across multiple platforms and disciplines that welcomes entries from local and national artists. Recognising the ongoing impacts of the pandemic on visual artists across the country, this year, the Main Prize money has doubled.
Footscray has a growing reputation for being a centre for arts and culture, influenced by a rich industrial heritage and diverse community. The Footscray Art Prize provides an opportunity to celebrate this artistic vibrancy and creativity within the local community and beyond.
The Prize is an opportunity for artists from across Australia to showcase their art in the thriving hub of Footscray and share in $33,000 worth of prizes across four categories:
- Footscray Art Prize ($20,000)
- Local Acquisition Prize ($10,000)
- Residency Artist Prize ($2000)
- Young Artists Prize for primary students ($500) and secondary students ($500)
The official launch of the exhibition was held at Footscray Community Arts, 45 Moreland St, Footscray.
Exhibition dates: 15 July—17 September 2023.
The Footscray Art Prize is a partnership between Victoria University, Maribyrnong City Council, Footscray Community Arts and the Rotary Club of Footscray.
2023 Prize Results
The judging panel awarded the main prize to Roberta Joy Rich for her powerful video installation, Though Buried, They Echo. Maribyrnong City Council awarded artist Jessie Deane with the Local Acquisition Prize for The Big Build. Ammar Yonis took the runner-up spot with his photography work, Salon Gâr.
Abbra Kotlarczyk received the Residency Award from Footscray Community Arts for Bridgehead (de)composition / Sweating the impurities. Grace Nguyen won a Young Artists Prize for her crocheted work, King Sunny, as did Jadyn Gregorio for her captivating oil on aluminium piece, atopic dermatitis.
For more information, visit footscrayartprize.com