Girra: Fraser Coast National Art Prize

The inaugural Girra: Fraser Coast National Art Prize is set to draw attention from across the country as artists vie for the $25,000 major acquisitive prize.

The new initiative of the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery hopes to explore an artist’s relationship with the environment through contemporary art.

Named Girra, the Butchulla word for sand, the title nods to the region’s unique natural features including the world’s largest sand island K’gari, while asking artists to consider how their work relates to the natural environment.

Councillor David Lewis said entries would open on 1 May 2023 until 26 June 2023, with an exhibition of the finalist’s work opening on 23 September 2023.

“Entrants will be invited to submit works that demonstrate a conceptual engagement with the intersection of people, place and the environment,” he said.  

“The exhibition is a fantastic opportunity for locals to experience a diverse selection of acclaimed artwork in their backyard, as well as host artists and tourists drawn to the region.”

Cr Lewis said Girra was the next step forward in making the Fraser Coast a significant cultural destination.

“Our aim is to contribute to a sustainable creative economy and promote the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery as part of the region’s tourism experience,” he said.

The Major Prize winner will be awarded a $25,000 acquisitive prize and their work will become a significant early acquisition for the newly focused art collection of the Fraser Coast.

For more information on the prize or to sign up for regular updates about the prize and other Hervey Bay Regional Gallery projects click below:

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