Archibald competition’s 51 finalists on exhibition

Tessa MacKayTessa MacKay, with her winning portrait of actor, David Wenham

Central Coast Council, in partnership with the Art Gallery of NSW, is bringing the Archibald Prize exhibition to The Gosford Regional Gallery.

The exhibition arrives at the Gallery on November 15 and will remain there until January 12, 2020, giving residents a unique opportunity to see one of the nation’s most beloved and prestigious art competition entries.

This is the third time that the Archibald Prize exhibition will be hosted on the Central Coast. Inaugurated in 1921, the Archibald Prize is a window into Australian culture with sporting heroes, politicians, actors, and artists just some of the many people to have posed for portraits over the years.

Council Team Leader Art Galleries, Tim Braham, said the often controversial Archibald Prize is arguably the most renowned and anticipated annual exhibition in the nation. “This holiday season, locals and visitors to the Central Coast will have the opportunity to view the stunning collection of 51 finalists, ” Braham said. “Visitors to the exhibition will also have their chance to play art critic for the day as they are encouraged to vote for their favourite portrait in the People’s Choice Award.

“As part of the regional tour we are also encouraging budding artists between the ages of five and 18 to submit a portrait for the Young Archie Competition. “Just like the Archibald Prize, young artists are required to paint a portrait, from a live sitting. “It should be of be someone who is known to them and plays a significant role in their life, ” Braham said.

Mayor Lisa Matthews said hosting an exhibition of such calibre is an incredible opportunity for residents to enjoy a major art exhibition without the need to travel to Sydney. “There is deep appreciation and a love of art and culture across the Central Coast and we are also home to some incredibly talented artists. “The Regional Gallery’s ability to attract such important exhibitions is testament to its reputation in the arts community as a first class facility, ’ Mayor Matthews said.

Source: Media release, Nov 7 Central Coast Council Media