Calling for paintings that include wit, slapstick, vulgarity, farce, comedy, irreverence and everything in between, the prize pokes fun at Australians distinguished in art, letters, politics, sport or the media.
This year the exhibition will feature portraits of Australians and people of note such as Bob Katter, Jacinta Price and Scott Cam. The 2024 winner of the $10,000 prize was awarded to artist Judy Nadin, for her work Flippin’ Kerfection, a satirical caricature depicting Australian professional soccer player Sam Kerr OAM’s iconic celebratory backflip in exaggerated action.
Forty portraits will be on display at the Corowa Art Space including the work of Corowa’s own Michael Mack.
“I have three works entered and really enjoyed painting them. It's an opportunity to extend yourself and have a lot of fun,” he said.
“It would be great if other local artists submitted work next year. I’m looking forward to another great Bald Archy.”
Visitors will be able to hear all about Michael’s creative process at his artist talk at 11am on Wednesday, September 25.
In its 28 th year, the Bald Archy prize was started by the late Peter Batey OAM in a corrugated iron shed at Coolac, just north of Gundagai in 1994, as a send-up of the prestigious portraiture award the Archibald Prize.
The award continues to be judged by Professor Maude the Sulphur Crested Cockatoo whose eye for art matches her wicked wit.
Entry to the exhibition is $5 for adults; free entry for children under 18. Opening times are Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm and on weekends 10am – 2pm. For further enquiries about the Bald Archy Prize’s tour to Corowa, contact communityevents@federationcouncil.nsw.gov.au or (02) 6033 8936.
