Three Logan artists have been named finalists in the 2024 Brisbane Portrait Prize.
Eagleby’s Beth Thompson, Shailer Park’s Nicola Hooper and Heritage Park’s Stevie O’Chin are three of 64 finalists chosen.
More than 575 artists submitted pieces in the competition, now in its sixth year, with the winners to be announced on Friday 2 August.
A total of $90,000 in prize money is up for grabs across nine categories, including the $50,000 Lord Mayor’s Prize.
Ms Thompson’s entry is a photographic piece, titled Mel, depicting Yuwaalaray Gamilaraay, Kooma and Celtic artist, researcher and poet Melissa Stannard.
Ms Stannard is a mentor of Ms Thompson’s – both share Indigenous heritages that play a role in their artworks.
“The close connection to Country is highlighted in the setting of this work with the tree branches and roots cradling the sitter and with leaves softly forming a nest around her,” Ms Thompson said.
“[The work is] a reminder of the deep bond between Stannard and their sacred connection to Country.
“It tells a story of empowerment, reclaiming our roots and embracing the beauty of our ancestry – a testament to the enduring legacy of the feminine and the unbreakable ties that bind us to our Country.”
Ms O’Chin is also an Aboriginal artist.
She said her paintings were inspired by her surroundings, and stories told to her by her parents and family elders.
Ms O’Chin’s acrylic artwork depicts Shannon Ruska – a well-known Brisbane man and owner of Tribal Experiences.
He has used the arts and entertainment to share Indigenous culture for more than 25 years, and worked as an advisor to Brisbane City Council, Qantas, QPAC, and others.
“I chose to paint Shannon in black and white dots as it evokes a mood and captures his seriousness and earnestness when Welcoming people to Country,” Ms O’Chin said.
“This portrait captures his warmth and generosity of spirit, and also a thoughtful, more contemplative side.”
Ms Hooper’s submission blends photography, lithography and watercolour.
It depicts Kyra Mancktelow, a Quandamooka (Moreton Bay) artist whose works centre around Aboriginal heritage and the intergenerational trauma faced by First Nations people.
“Combining photography and the traditional storytelling technique of lithography allows me to transform Kyra into a python princess, reflecting her deep connection to Country and these incredible creatures,” Ms Hooper said.
Ms Hooper’s solo exhibition, ZOONOSES, is currently touring twelve venues across the country.
Her work explores human and animal relationships.
Winners of the competition will be announced on 2 August.
The Exhibition officially opens on 3 August and closes on 10 November.
