Initiative marries sport and art in $100,000 prizeOn Friday, February 23, 2007, a major new initiative will be launched. Offering $100,000 to a single outstanding work of art, the Basil Sellers Art Prize is significant not only for the substantial award amount, but also for its theme - sport. Today, art prizes are a familiar feature in our landscape, but this prize offers something exceptional. Bringing together the apparent foes of sport and art to an arena that will encourage bloodletting, cheers, competition and perhaps some spectacular insights, the launch is a call to artists to sharpen their brushes and enter the fray. And, for audiences, it will prepare them for something a little different - this prize is not the Archibald Prize in a footy jumper. For many artists, sport has already been a ‘happy hunting ground’ within their practice. Australia’s mythology, sense of identity and achievement is linked to sport and our social rituals are often structured around sporting events; from the humble game of beach cricket through to the Melbourne Cup. Our contemporary economy is inseparable from sport and some of our lingering barriers - race, gender, sexuality and disability - show up sharply in sporting culture. Art and artists reflect on these big issues, teasing out hidden themes and bringing our emotions, beliefs and prejudices into focus. This prize is intended to do just that, using sport as the vehicle to consider our contemporary culture, provoke sharp reflections, unsettle preconceptions and generate new ideas. Director of the Ian Potter Museum of Art, Dr Chris McAuliffe commented, “Basil and I both share a passion for sport, but we are also aware that artists can bring a fresh and critical eye to contemporary life. So, whether ‘sport’ is interpreted as two-up or tiddlywinks, or references are made more obliquely to obsession, or ‘win at all costs’, we are encouraging artists to ask pointed questions and to explore the murkier backwaters of sporting culture. With this in mind, I say ‘let the games begin’!” The prize has been initiated and generously underwritten by Basil Seller AM. A businessman and philanthropist, Basil has made his career breathing life into ailing companies. He has been described as the ‘turnaround king’. A recognised art collector, Basil divides his time between Europe and Australia - or where ever the Sydney Swans are playing that weekend. Basil commented, “My hope is that this prize will take
lovers of sport and art into what may be unchartered, but ultimately
rewarding territory, leading to an engagement that will enhance their
enjoyment of each others loves.” Entry forms can be obtained from www.sellersartprize.com.au For further information, or to place yourself on the Basil Sellers Art Prize mailing list, contact: The Ian Potter Museum of Art For media inquiries, contact: |