Media

Entries are now flowing in for the RACT Insurance Tasmanian Youth Portraiture Prize. With a closing date of June 30 (2009), entries have so far been received from both northern and southern Tasmania.

Entrants are asked to do a portrait of a Tasmanian who has provided an inspiration in their life. Each artist is required to include a written submission on why the subject provided personal inspiration.

The Tasmanian Youth Portraiture Prize, which was inaugurated last year, provides an important platform for emerging artists aged 30 years and younger to showcase their talents by painting a living Tasmanian.

Last year’s inaugural prize was so successful – attracting 43 entries – that RACT Insurance decided to make it an annual event. “Young artists responded strongly to the concept last year, and we’re pleased to see entries now steadily flowing on for the 2009 prize,” said the Chief Executive of RACT Insurance, Trent Sayers.

The RACT Insurance Tasmanian Youth Portraiture Prize is believed to be the only such competition in Australia.

The judging panel comprises Adriane Boag of the National Gallery of Australia, Helene Weeding of the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery and Kim Schneiders of Interweave Arts, Launceston.

The winners will be announced on September 4 in Devonport. The overall winner will receive $5,000 and a trip for two to view the Archibald Prize exhibition in Sydney. The runner up and Sponsors' Choice will receive $500 and this year a People’s Choice award of $500 is being introduced.

The People’s Choice award will give members of the public viewing the exhibition in Devonport, Launceston and Hobart an opportunity to vote for their personal favourite.

The RACT Insurance Tasmanian Youth Portraiture Prize is a partnership between RACT Insurance, Clemenger Tasmania, Geon and Tasmanian Regional Arts. The objective is to foster the development of young Tasmanian artists and provide an opportunity for the public to recognise the talents of Tasmania's emerging artists.