2nd & 3rd

AUGUST 2024

A 2-DAY EVENT CELEBRATING AND SHARING DISABILITY ART THROUGH ART WORKSHOPS, CONFERENCES, EXHIBITION OPENING AND WINTER BALL.

Phoenix Art Prize 2024

MAJOR PRIZE WINNER

EDWARD BARNES - “Three night owls”

Judges comments:

Edward Barnes' Three Night Owls stands out for its unique and playful interpretation of his subject. Each owl possesses a unique personality, brought to life through Barnes’ vibrant use of colour and bold outlines. The expressive eyes and intricate detail on their claws— adding a remarkable level of realism and character—invite viewers to ponder the owls' individual stories and interactions. This attention to detail, combined with his characteristic bright colours and dynamic brushstrokes, infuses the piece with a whimsical charm and a sense of lively curiosity. Barnes’ connection to his environment is evident in this work, reflecting the inspiration he draws from his surroundings in Gumma. His artistic style shines through in the confident portrayal of these characters. His recent achievements, including accolades at art shows and a collaborative residency with Gumbaynggirr artist Chris Edwards, signal a promising trajectory in his career. Three Night Owls not only showcases Barnes' skill in imaginative drawing but also his ability to evoke emotion and humour, making it a compelling and engaging piece that continues to delight and inspire.

2ND PRIZE WINNER

Eva Jones - To be alive is to be vulnerable

Judges comments:

Eva’s most constant aspiration as a child was to be an inventor. Her inability to find a more specific word - other than essentially 'creator' - is central to her current artistic practice. She has never been a person to do one thing at a time, and exploring and incorporating multiple mediums in her work is expressive of this. Eva finds that it allows her to create deeper meaning in works, simply by the use of different techniques or materials. Much of her inspiration comes from language rather than visual arts, the lyricism of poetry - notably that of the late Maya Angelou - is where she finds ideas and images. In terms of visual artists; Ben Quilty and other lovers of texture provide the tangible nature she hopes to create in her own pieces; whilst influences from the Surrealist movement encourages her juxtaposition of different modalities, styles, and mediums. The lens through which Eva interacts with life is informed by her conditions. Far before she begun recognising herself as disabled, it was innately influencing her art.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Susan Wilson- On our way

Judges comments:

Susan Wilson’s abstract collage is a testament to an artist profoundly intertwined with her craft. The dynamic movement and intrictae layers of her work evoke a powerful emotional response, showcasing her exceptional ability to convey themes of healing and triumph. This piece exemplifies her mastery and profound artistic expression.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Paul Gibson- Shapes in the shadows

Judges comments:

Paul Gibson’s Shapes in the Shadows is a striking example of bold expression and imaginative exploration. This painting, starting with the simple subject of "The Lamp," transforms into an extraordinary visual experience through Gibson’s use of colour, form, and light. His vibrant and dynamic brushwork creates a mesmerising interplay of hues and shadows, drawing viewers into a captivating narrative. Gibson’s ability to adapt across different styles and mediums is evident in this piece, showcasing his versatility and precision. The artwork’s vivid colours and well-balanced composition highlight his technical skill and creative vision. Each element of the painting contributes to a cohesive and engaging visual story, reflecting Gibson’s personality and keen sense of humour.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Kevin Tierney - Indian Percussionist

Judges comments:

Kevin Tierney’s Indian Percussionist is a vivid celebration of colour and form that immerses viewers in its abstract depiction of the human figure. The artwork employs a bold and striking use of colour, characterised by energetic and dynamic hues that effectively capture the essence of rhythm and motion associated with Indian percussion. The lines in the piece are both expressive and deliberate, contributing to the overall sense of vitality and movement. Tierney’s understanding of the human form is evident in the way he abstracts it while maintaining its essence, showcasing his skillful manipulation of acrylics to convey a joyful scene with powerful emotional impact. This artwork not only demonstrates Tierney's technical skill but also his personal connection to his subject matter, reflecting his journey with Parkinson’s and how art has been a source of resilience and expression throughout his life. His extensive exhibition history further highlights his commitment and his continuous evolution as an artist.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD

JAKE MCCULLOCH

“Escape from Coco's Arcade”

My artwork involves Coco, based on one of my cats, a larger and an evil feline bent on world domination only to be thwarted by Natasha Romanov, Coco enlists the help of her henchcats Nat, Tilly and Luna to help her take over the world. Despite Coco's attempts, her schemes always get foiled a lot so she would attempt to strike back but always backfires.

The art shows what happens when an evil cat tries to cause chaos only to be foiled by Natasha through my artwork just because I love cats and Black Widow!

I hope you enjoy the action...