Artspace volunteer becomes a 2010 Blake Prize finalist

Local Janine Whitling has recently been selected as a finalist in one of the more prestigious art prizes in Australia, the 2010 Blake Prize.

The $20,000 Blake Prize was established in 1951 and is the oldest prize in Australia dedicated to religion, spirituality, and human justice.

Organisers said this year’s exhibition includes works that look at traditional religious themes including the Last Supper, transcendence and transformation, rebirth and religious symbolism, as well as the role of culture and spirituality in the every day.

Recent winners have included George Gittoes, Hilarie Mais and Rachel Ellis.

Artspace volunteer and part-time liaison officer for the University of Tasmania (UTAS), Janine Whitling has only started practicing and following her love for art since completing her Master of Contemporary Arts.

“Art has always been a love since childhood but I chose not to study it thinking that it wouldn’t be a wise career move and instead maintained it as a passionate hobby,” she said.

“I was very excited to be awarded finalist for the 59th Blake Prize, it felt like a wonderful confirmation of my decision to return to art,”

“Through completing my university course I have gained confidence in myself as an artist and then to be recognised by such a prestigious art prize is an honour.”
 
Community Services and Facilities portfolio councillor Karen May said Artspace Mackay is very proud of Janine and the recognition she has gained from her entry into the 2010 Blake Prize.

“Council has almost 700 volunteers who provide support to facilities such as Artspace, Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, Sarina Sugar Shed and Museums,” she said.

“Every single volunteer just like Janine has such strong passion, commitment and selflessness towards their particular facility and/or industry that they volunteer their time to,”

The exhibition is currently on display at the National Art School (NAS) Gallery in Sydney until Saturday, October 2 and includes nearly 70 works from all the finalists which were selected from over 1100 entries.

On the conclusion of the exhibition in the next few weeks the works will then start on a tour to regional areas such as the Ararat Regional Art Gallery and Tweed River Art Gallery.

Contact: Melissa Dunn

Phone: 1300 MACKAY (1300 622 529)