Awards seeking excellence in 3D art design

Creators of object art can look forward to winning $10,000 in prize money with the return of the OBJECTive Art Awards this year.

Now in its third year, the awards are open to a range of works from the handmade to the highly designed, and in a variety of media - ceramics, glass, jewellery, wood, metalwork and textiles.

Being judged by Carin Wilson, the awards aim to raise the profile of threedimensional art making, and have become a significant arts event for Manukau. Mr Wilson is well known for his sculpture and architectural work and has been influential in designing furniture and interiors for the last two decades.

Successful artworks will be featured in an exhibition at Nathan Homestead in Manurewa as part of the Manukau Festival of Arts 2009, and other submitted works will be shown at Mangere Arts Centre.

Arts Manager Leisa Siteine says the awards offer a wide creative freedom for the artists.

“Each year, it is very encouraging to see artists from around New Zealand pushing the boundaries of design, technique and material.

“For the artists, the awards offer not only an opportunity to gain recognition but also win substantial prize money.”

For the past winners, the awards have served as a valuable stepping stone in developing their art careers.

Entries close on 3 October and the awards will be announced on 30 October at Nathan Homestead in Manurewa.

Entry forms are available from all Manukau Arts centres or from Linda Darnill, Events Co-ordinator, phone (09) 262 8900 ext 5297 or email manukau.arts@manukau.govt.nz