The popular Warrnibald Prize will make a comeback to the Warrnambool Art Gallery despite uncertainty over the COVID-19 pandemic.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The event was cancelled last year while the art gallery's air-conditioning system underwent a major upgrade.
Despite the difficulties the competition faces due to COVID-19, Warrnibald organisers are pushing ahead, implementing social distancing rules and moving the exhibition online.
Entrants will be encouraged to observe social distancing and create their portrait from a photograph, memory or of someone they live with.
The event - run by the art gallery in conjunction with WDEA Works - is a non-acquisitive open-entry portraiture exhibition and art prize.
WDEA Works chief executive officer Tom Scarborough said he believed the Warrnibald would help to keep people connected.
"While we're living in uncertain times it's now more important than ever for us to maintain that community spirit and leadership which the Warrnibald celebrates," he said.
Gallery director Vanessa Gerrans said it was looking at innovative ways to ensure the public was able to safely view the entrants for the Warrnibald, and also to assist with judging the people's choice Archibool award.
The portraits will be collected through the WAG, ensuring that COVID-19 policies are followed.
The works will be judged in person, but it's anticipated the first view of the collection to the public will be through digital methods.
"We're excited to use this opportunity to extend the message of the Warrnibald and employing a digital element to the viewing will enable this. We understand that viewing art online isn't the same as in person, but thanks to technology, we can still get joy from art and creativity," Ms Gerrans said.
Artists choose subjects who have made significant contributions to local culture, art, volunteering, business, sport, politics, education or health in our region or have represented our region by contributing in these areas in Australia or overseas.
Money raised through the event will help support the WDEA Works social enterprises' Artlink program which first held the Warrnibald in 2012.
The Junior Warrnibald will also run again this year after first being staged in 2018 before it went into hiatus.
Entries for the Warrnibald close July 11, and Junior Warrnibald entries close June 26.
Have you signed up to The Standard's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in the south-west.
