A colourful and diverse range of entries for the ninth annual National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Aboriginal Art Award 2010 will be officially opened at the Lismore Regional Gallery this Saturday 5th June.
The exhibition, to be held at 131 Molesworth Street Lismore, features works from Aboriginal artists across the Northern Rivers Region.
NPWS Senior Ranger, Kerrie Metzler said the variety and quality of the artworks on display show that Aboriginal culture is thriving in the Northern Rivers Region.
“We are very excited to see such a fantastic range of artworks and are delighted to be exhibiting over 50 entries,” Ms Metzler said.
“This exhibition provides a great opportunity to view high quality works from across the region in one location.
“Many of the works are for sale, so it’s also a great opportunity to gain a piece of local art and support local artists.
“Everyone is warmly invited to come along to the opening ceremony at 11.00 am, during which there will be a dance performance by Jason Campbell as well as bushfood refreshments.
“The Awards for the various categories will also be presented.
“Awards include a 1st and 2nd Open Prize, a Collaborative award for artworks created by Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal artists working in collaboration, and a Youth award,” Ms Metzler said.
“Once again a popular Peoples Choice prize, sponsored by the Gnibi School of Indigenous studies, Southern Cross University will be awarded. Members of the public are invited to participate by coming along and casting their vote.
“The competition this year will be judged by Bruce McLean, Associate Curator of Indigenous Australian Art, Queensland Art Gallery of Modern Art.
“The entries in the NPWS Art Award will remain on display at the Gallery until Saturday 10 July 2010.”
