Arts Prize makes an impression on Queenscliff

THE historical Queenscliff Pier has been transformed into Australia’s largest outdoor art exhibition for the fourth year running.

More than 150 artworks have been installed on the local landmark for the 2023-24 Queenscliff Arts Prize.

The art extravaganza provides artists from across the country with the opportunity to exhibit.

Artists have entered in more than 10 categories, including portrait, mixed media, landscapes, digital art, print art and photography divisions.

The works of art are printed on a mix of alminium panels and on canvas in between two sheets of polycarbonate plastic, reflecting the sun.

Exhibition curator Chris MacLeod said it was great to see the pier bustling with some of the country’s best artworks.

“It’s been fantastic to get the pieces up in the last few weeks and to see the historical pier back at its best,” he said.

“We’ve got some amazing photographic work, a couple of different forms of linocut printing and heaps of variety in 2024.

“We’ve got many past winners exhibiting again which is terrific and shows there is an appreciation and willingness from artists to continue entering the prize.

“I look forward to crowning winners in March and awarding our fourth annual overall champion.”

He said the local community had been full of praise to see Queenscliff Pier bright with colour again over the summer months.

“The feedback I have got from both the community and our artists has been the most encouraging I’ve ever experienced in any industry.

“It’s heartwarming; that’s the only word to describe it, really.

“I’m also very grateful to Parks Victoria who have granted us into May rather than the end of April to exhibit the artworks.”

Judging of the Queenscliff Pier entries takes place in February, and the winners will be announced in March.

All works will be exhibited on the Queenscliff Pier until May.

The Queenscliff Arts Prize complements two other coming exhibitions Mr MacLeod will run at the Rosebud Pier and South Melbourne Pier in 2024.

For more information, head to queenscliffartprize.com.au