Du Rietz Art Awards: A showcase of exceptional finalists
After a record number of entries, Gympie Regional Gallery is honoured to present finalists for the premier art awards of the Gympie region, the Du Rietz Art Awards. The Du Rietz Art Awards are an annual highlight within Gympie’s art scene and pay homage to the architect of the beautiful historical School of Arts building where the Gallery is housed, Hugo Du Rietz.
Over 190 entries were received this year and the exhibition will showcase 89 shortlisted finalists across 2D and 3D categories. Winners will be announced at the free ticketed event on Friday 30 August from 6pm with a prize pool of over $16,000 to be awarded on the night. There is strong representation from the Gympie region and South-East Queensland; however, the appeal of the exhibition extends nationwide with finalists from Victoria, Western Australia and South Australia set to be on display.
Everyone who attends the exhibition throughout August and September will have the opportunity to nominate their favourite artwork for the People’s Choice Award, with a prize value of $1000.
In 2024, the Gallery welcomes three new judges: Brian Robinson, internationally recognised Cairns based printmaker and public sculpture artist, Miles Allen, Sunshine Coast artist, and Sarah Thomson, Director of Hervey Bay Regional Gallery. Meet some of the judges during the exhibition opening and gain further insight into the judging process during a free Judges Talk to be held on Saturday 31 August at 10.30am at the Gallery.
Gympie Regional Council Mayor, Glen Hartwig said the Du Rietz Art Awards had quickly become one of Queensland’s premier art competitions.
“Each year, this competition continues to showcase our community’s vibrant artistic culture and exceptional works by artists from within the region and across the country,” Cr Hartwig said.
“I encourage all residents to attend the opening event or visit the Gympie Regional Gallery between 23 August and 27 September to experience the exhibition firsthand.
I would like to congratulate the dedicated staff at the Gallery who continue to deliver outstanding exhibitions and competitions for residents and visitors to enjoy.
"I also want to thank this year's sponsors. Your support is essential to making this competition possible."
These awards are made possible by the generous support of our community sponsors. The Gallery thanks it’s major sponsors – Budget Steel, SoMa SoMa Espresso and CAA Consulting. As well as new major sponsor, Countrywide Metals.
Key Dates:
Exhibition viewing 23 August – 27 September
Official Opening Friday 30 August, 6pm. Registrations required online.
Judges Talk Saturday 31 August, 10.30am. Registrations are encouraged online.
Entry to the Gympie Regional Gallery at 39 Nash Street is free and open to the public. Opening hours are Tuesday to Friday 10am to 4pm and Saturday 10am – 2pm.
All further information can be found at the Gallery website [http://www.gympie.qld.gov.au/draa](http://www.gympie.qld.gov.au/draa "smartCard-inline")