Williamstown Contemporary Art Prize 2008

This work came from a series of evocative and quirky portraits I made for my solo exhibition Delightful at Gasworks Arts Park. The works are set in the cafes of inner city Melbourne and are of an eccentric Melbourne-based author, and dear friend (well that’s what happens after quite a few sittings, photos and drawings!).

I was captivated by Lynn’s vibrant 40’s and 50’s vintage clothing. The opportunity to paint Lynn in modern day Melbourne evoked the feeling of past and present and ties in with my fascination of cafes as traditional Parisian meeting places for artists and writers. It also draws on my fascination of iconic – yet little known- local personalities and characters who make Melbourne such a vibrant and eclectic city.

‘Lyno Writing At Cavallero’ made it into this year’s Williamstown Contemporary Art Prize.  The launch and awards ceremony was held at The Substation Arts Centre in Newport on 20 March, 2008 with a crowd of over 400 people in attendance.

The Contemporary Art Prize is run annually as part of the Williamstown Festival.  Judges for this year were noted Melbourne artist Rick Amor, Director of Gallery 101 Dianna Gold, and Curator of Australian Art Exhibitions at the National Gallery of Victoria David Hurlston.

Read more about my work and prizes on my blog.