'Connections' NPWS Aboriginal Art Award Opening
Media release: 2 July 2009
A vibrant and diverse range of entries for the eight annual NPWS Aboriginal Art Award 2009 will be officially opened at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery, Ballina, this weekend Saturday 4th July.
The exhibition 'Connections' features works from Aboriginal artists across the Northern Rivers Region.
National Parks and Wildlife Service (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 artwork and are delighted to be exhibiting over 60 entries," Ms Metzler said.
"This exhibition is a great opportunity to see high quality works from across the region in one location.
"Many of the works are for sale, so it's a chance to gain a piece of local art and support local artists.
"Everyone is warmly invited to come along to the ceremony at 2.00pm, during which there will be performances by local Aboriginal dancers.
"The Awards for the various will also be presented during the afternoon.
"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 so members of the public are invited to participate by coming along and casting their vote.
"The competition this year will be judged by Tess Allas, College of Fine Arts, from the University of New South Wales.
"The entries in the NPWS Connections Art Award will remain on display at the Gallery until Sunday 2rd August, 2009."
Further Information: Northern Rivers Community Gallery on 02) 6681 6167 or Kerrie Metzler, Community Relations Ranger at Alstonville, 02) 6627 0218.
Contact: Lawrence Orel