Join us at the Institute of Modern Art to celebrate the official opening and prize announcement of the churchie emerging art prize 2021.

The winner of the $15,000 Major Prize sponsored by BSPN Architecture will be announced on the evening by guest judge Rhana Devenport ONZM, Director of the Art Gallery of South Australia.

Bringing together 14 artists from across the country, the finalists’ exhibition surveys the compelling and diverse work being produced by emerging artists today.

The 2021 finalists are: Akil Ahamat, Tiyan Baker, Christopher Bassi, Leon Russell (Cameron) Black, Ohni Blu, Riana Head-Toussaint, Visaya Hoffie, Kait James, Alexa Malizon, Kyra Mancktelow, Ivy Minniecon, Nina Sanadze, Jayanto Tan, and Joanne Wheeler. The 2021 finalists’ exhibition is guest curated by artist, writer, and curator Grace Herbert in a role supported by Armitstead ART Consulting.

The Major Prize winner will receive a $15,000 non-acquisitive cash prize provided by long-standing sponsor BSPN Architecture. Devenport will also award a Special Commendation Prize of $5,000, sponsored by  Fardoulys Constructions, as well as two $1,000 Commendation Prizes sponsored by  Madison Cleaning Services. Gallery visitors are invited to vote for the recipient of the $3,000 People’s Choice Award, also sponsored by Madison Cleaning Services, to be announced at the conclusion of the exhibition.

Opening night and announcement: 6 – 8pm, Friday 8 October 2021
Exhibition continues: Saturday 9 October – Saturday 18 December 2021

Stay up to date with the latest news via ‘the churchie’ (Facebook, Instagram) and IMA social media channels (Facebook, Instagram).

Image: Nina Sanadze, Apotheosis, 2021, original studio archive of a prominent soviet sculptor Valentin Topuridze, plaster models, moulds and fragments, 160 x 310 x 200cm. Photo: Grant Hancock.