Emerging artists sought for Dampier awards

Emerging and established artists living in the City of Karratha who are keen to have their work recognised are being called on to enter the annual Dampier Art Awards.

Now in its eighth year, the grassroots awards are aimed at showcasing the talents of emerging Pilbara artists while capturing the essence of what life is like working and living in the Pilbara.

The 2018 theme, Under the Sun, explores the question “is there something new under the sun?”

This year, for the first time, Dampier Arts Studio is assisting with the awards in collaboration with Dampier Community Association.

DAS vice-president Leen Vorsselmans said the joint venture was an exciting opportunity.

“There is a good amount of categories and we’re really excited to help out and spread the word,” she said.

“People have the opportunity to put out any kind of art that they want.

“There’s no real restrictions for age and we’re hoping everyone from Dampier and Karratha will get involved.”

Prizes are up for grabs in seven categories and judges will be looking for artwork which captures local views on culture, identity, and nationhood.

The awards will be judged by Welsh-born artist and teacher Sadie James, who has an art studio in Coral Bay, 120km south of Exmouth.

Sadie is a freelance artist, published author and illustrator of children’s books. Her illustrations combine lino prints, layered painted textures and carefully observe the oceanic world.

The debut theme of the awards in 2010 was ‘By the Sea’ and recent themes have included ‘From little things big things grow’ in 2013, ‘Colour My Life’ in 2014, ‘Home is Where the Heart is’ in 2015 and ‘Ancient Land, Changing Town’ in 2016.

The exhibition will be at Dampier Community Hall and will be open 10am-4pm from March 24-26.

Entry is $40 an artwork for adults and $20 an artwork for youth entrants.

Entry forms are available on the DAS Facebook page and at Karratha Library.

Contact DAS at dampierartsstudio@gmail.com.