Last call for creative collab

THE final week is here for entries to be submitted for an inaugural art prize aimed at fostering collaboration between creatives.

The first-ever Infuse Art Prize, created by local ceramicist Ruby Pilven, will be closed for applications on Friday 25 October.

Pilven said she’s looking forward to seeing the remainder of collaborative pieces come in for the prize.

“I’ve had probably a dozen incredibly strong entries so far but there’s been tonnes of people telling me they’re excited because they’re going to make or have nearly finished something,” she said.

“There’s sculptural, found objects, textiles, every sort of medium.

“The plan was not to be exclusive to just painting or pottering.

“I want everyone to feel like they can enter.”

The art prize’s entries will be exhibited at Ross Creek Gallery from Saturday 7 December until Sunday 22 December.

Entries will be judged by a panel including Dr Deanne Gilson, Kiri Smart, Tomas Lineker, and Mairin Briody.

The winning artists will be announced on opening weekend by head judge and outgoing Art Gallery of Ballarat curator Julie McLaren.

They will receive $3000 in prize money as well as vouchers for local businesses.

A $200 Northcote Pottery Supplies voucher will also be up for grabs for the best ceramic collaborative artwork.

Pilven said she feels the competition has allowed for some interesting artistic partnerships to take place.

“I’ve had so many conversations with people about how excited they are to actually do this and to collaborate,” she said.

“It’s letting people let go of those insecurities and those fears and wanting to engage with their friends and with a medium they maybe aren’t familiar with, and make something meaningful.

“It’s something fun, but also to share knowledge.”

The exhibition will be open each day from 11am to 4pm.

To apply, visit the Ross Creek Gallery website.