The Bouddi Foundation held its awards day at Wagstaffe Hall on October 13 presenting 17 grants to the winners announced last month.
Among the young artists to share the $21,000 prize were Umina dancer Shana O’Brien, Empire Bay singer-songwriter Maddy Bell and Pretty Beach folk and bluegrass fiddler Naomi Jones. Among those attending were ABC presenter Ms Annabel Crabb, local artist Peter Goodwin and Federal Member for Robertson Ms Lucy Wicks. Master of ceremonies was actor Graeme Blundell.
The Foundation’s president, Mr John Bell, said there was an enormous depth of talent among young artists on the Central Coast. “This year we received a record number of applications and the standard was exceptionally high. “They are an extraordinary bunch, with enormous skill, dedication and ability to accept the hard work that goes along with the very demanding artistic disciplines they have taken on,” Mr Bell said. Following the presentation Mr Blundell and Ms Crabb entertained audiences with an interview, where Mr Blundell pressed Ms Crabb for insights into the Australian political climate.
SOURCE: Media release, 17 Oct 2018 Joy Park, Bouddi Foundation for the Arts