Heather Straka, Repeat After Me... Amanda #2 (detail) 2008
11 October 2008 - 3 February 2009
New Zealand's most celebrated annual contemporary art award returns to TheNewDowse in this stunning showcase of the 2008 finalists, presented in Wellington by Gillespie Young Watson.
In partnership with The James Wallace Arts Trust, TheNewDowse presents the 17th Annual Wallace Art Awards, providing an opportunity to view the winners and finalists in New Zealand's richest, longest-running and most provocative contemporary art award.
From billiard-cloth to human hair, detergent to recycled taxidermy birds, artists used a wide variety of materials - the exhibition gives viewers a glimpse of the edgy, eclectic work being produced by contemporary NZ sculptors, photographers and painters.
Drawn from the 2008 finalists, the exhibition includes works by Paramount Winner Richard Lewer, Kaipara Foundation Wallace Trust winner Hether Straka, Park Lane Wallace Trust Development Award winner Ruth Cleland and Runners-up Matthew Couper and Liyen Chong.
Established in 1992, the Wallace Art Awards provide new emerging and established artists the chance to win international residencies and cash prizes as well as receive national exposure as part of the travelling exhibition.
TheNewDowse is the only Wellington venue for the Awards exhibition.
17th Annual Wallace Art Award Catalogues will be available for sale during the exhibition.
See the full Wallace Arts Trust Collection here: www.wallaceartstrust.org.nz