Gingin artist selected as a finalist in the Bankwest Art Prize for Sculpture
The work of Gingin based artist Geoff Overheu was recognised when he was announced as one of the finalists for the 2016 Bankwest Art Prize – one of the State’s most generous and prestigious visual arts awards. Under the stewardship of Bankwest Art Curator Sandra Murray 60 entries were assessed and shortlisted to 16 finalists, and whilst the prize was won by Tarryn Gill, Geoff’s intricate bronze sculptures will be celebrated as part of a public exhibition on until March.
Perth-born Geoff trained at the Victorian College of the Arts and Curtin University and has exhibited widely in WA as well as in Melbourne, Wollongong and Broken Hill. He was the winner of the Celebrating Joondalup Award in 2009. His piece for the Bankwest Art Prize is entitled ‘Ark 2016,’ a technically accomplished bronze monument which the artist said is a symbol that commemorates and acts as a memory within our culture.
“This is a bronze monument that celebrates the insignificant,” he added.
Speaking about being shortlisted for the Bankwest award he said, “I am delighted to be selected and it should be a wonderful experience.” Gingin artist selected as a finalist in the Bankwest Art Prize for Sculpture Bankwest Art Curator Sandra Murray said the high standard from this year’s finalists was testament to the remarkable prowess of sculptors in this State.
“I look forward to what promises to be a dynamic and captivating exhibition,” Ms Murray said. Bankwest Managing Director Rob De Luca said Bankwest continued to be a proud and passionate supporter of the arts. “I am excited that the 2016 Bankwest Art Prize has delivered such a strong field of finalists, including a considerable number of new entrants this year,” Mr De Luca said.
“It’s pleasing to be able to provide artists with the opportunity for their works to be displayed in a professional gallery in their home State.” There is currently no other art prize of such value committed solely to sculpture and open only to artists from Western Australia.
The winning piece will become part of the prestigious Bankwest Art Collection, a collection of over 450 works by WA artists. There will also be a People’s Choice Award, as voted by the public, to the value of $5,000. The Bankwest Art Gallery will host a public exhibition showcasing all of the finalists’ artworks from November 23 2016 to March 10 2017.
