Waverley Art Prize winners announced

11 July 2019

Australian artists Adam Oste and Elise Judd were among the winners in this year’s Waverley Art Prize announced on Thursday 11 July at Waverley Woollahra Art School.

Oste won the Open Award for Burnouts off Sir Joseph Banks Drive, Kurnell while Judd was the recipient of the Mayor’s Prize for her depiction of a beautiful bather in Long Hot Summer. Both awards are sponsored by Waverley Council.

Vote now for the People's Choice Prize sponsored by Waverley Council.

Voting closes Sunday, 21 July at the Waverley Art Prize exhibition, Waverley-Woollahra Art School, Bondi Road, Bondi.

For the past 33 years, Waverley Council has recognised, nurtured and awarded the artistic community by way of the Waverley Art Prize, which is open to artists 18 years and over for painting, drawing and mixed media.

A total of 394 entries were received this year and winners shared in a prize pool of around $12,000.

(Above) Mayor's Prize winner Elise Judd for Long Hot Summer

Esteemed judges Mitch Cairns, Fiona Lowry and Philjames had the unenviable task of whittling down this year’s entries to just 60 finalists.

(Above) Open Prize winner Adam Oste for Burnouts off Sir Joseph Banks Drive, Kurnell

The other winners were:

  • The Printmaking Prize: Yvonne Haber for Venice Alley Way
  • The Drawing Prize: Andrea Wilson for Sunday
  • The Acrylic Prize: Matthew Tumbers for The vast edge of shuffle
  • The Oil Painting Prize: Justin Maurice Scivetti for Mountain Pass

The following artists were Highly Commended:

  • David Fenoglio for Skeletons R Scary
  • Bridget McNab for Asters
  • Matilda Michell for Woman reading a letter

Waverley Mayor, John Wakefield, said helping emerging artists is one of the most important legacies of the Waverley Art Prize.

“We have many talented artists and writers who live and work in our community, and artistic expression is part of the fabric that makes us who and why Waverley Council support initiatives that increase our community’s participation and access to the arts,” Mayor Wakefield said.

Waverley Woollahra Art School was formed in 1968 by a group of artists who wanted a place to work and share their skills with the community.

“It continues to thrive today, and that’s testament to the Board, administrative staff and the many tutors who inspire and teach daily, ensuring that the school continues to fulfil this incredible role,” Mayor Wakefield said.