Judges announced for inaugural

A pair of judges will bring their artistic expertise, insight and passion to Hoop Gallery for the inaugural Talburac Art Prize.

Announced by the gallery, David Cross and Emily Wakeling will be the decision makers behind the prize, tasked with deciding the winning works. Cross is an internationally recognised artist, writer and curator, whose works span across performance, installation, video and photography.

The visual arts professor is also a co-founder of the Public Art Commission at Deakin University, leading major art projects across Australia and New Zealand.

“David’s ability to engage with conceptual depth and experimental practice makes him an invaluable voice in the judging process,” Hoop Gallery president Virginia Aldred said. As the curator at the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Wakeling brings a rich background in curating, art writing and cross-cultural engagement.”

She has curated projects across Australia and Japan including for exhibitions with artists Archie Moore and Courtney Coombs. Ms Aldred said Wakeling’s curatorial lens was both rigorous and empathetic.Her international experience and deep engagement with community-centred art practices will enrich the judging process.

The new art prize offers $13,000 in non-acquisitive awards and was made possible through the support of artist and philanthropist Ron Talbot. Artists will be in the running for the $10,000 major prize, emerging talent, highly commended works and a People’s Choice award.

Entrants must follow the theme “seasonal shifts’ and are invited to get creative with their interpretations of change, rhythm and renewal in natural and emotional landscapes of life.

The exhibition will run from November 7 until November 30 at Torquay’s Hoop Gallery. For more information, head to hoopgallery.com.au