The wait is over! The eagerly awaited Archibald Prize 2021 has opened at the Gippsland Art Gallery and is now on display until Sunday 21 November.
The exhibition will feature a stunning collection of activities, tours and talks for all ages. Located in Sale in central Gippsland, the Gippsland Art Gallery is the only place to see this extraordinary exhibition in Victoria as part of the Archibald Prize 2021 regional Australian tour.
Celebrating its centenary this year, the Art Gallery of New South Wales’ Archibald Prize is Australia’s foremost portraiture prize. First awarded in 1921, it is the country’s oldest and best loved portrait award, and one of its most prestigious.
Awarded to the best portrait painting, the prize attracts entries from both prominent and emerging artists in Australia and New Zealand, and features celebrated figures from all walks of life.
A total of 52 portraits will be on display in this year’s exhibition including 2021 Archibald Prize winner, Melbourne based Peter Wegner’s portrait of fellow artist and centenarian Guy Warren.
Also on display will be the Packing Room Prize winner, Kathrin Longhurst’s portrait of much loved singer Kate Ceberano and the People’s Choice winner, Melbourne based Julia Ciccarone with her stunning self-portrait titled The sea within.
A dynamic program of exciting events will be presented in conjunction with the exhibition, with most activities included in the cost of a regular ticket. Highlights include:
- Friday Up Late – every Friday night (from 15 October – 19 November) the Port of Sale will come alive to showcase the art gallery and the Archibald exhibition, with visitors able to listen to live music, whilst feasting on local produce and beverages.
- Pop Up Portrait Speed Dates – happening multiple times each week, visitors will be joined by a Gallery Guide and get personal with some of the artworks in the Archibald exhibition.
- Guided Tours – happening at 2:15pm every Saturday and Sunday, visitors will be led around the exhibition by one of Gippsland Art Gallery’s knowledgeable guides as they give greater insight into some of the Archibald Prize artworks hanging in this year’s exhibition (note: tours are selling fast)
Visitors to the exhibition are encouraged to plan a weekend escape or mid-week break to not only experience the Archibald Prize, but to experience everything else that the central Gippsland region has to offer.
Sale is the ideal base for exploring the wider Gippsland region, with destinations such as 90 Mile Beach, Port Albert, Tarra Bulga National Park, Yarram’s Heesco murals and plenty of wineries and dining experiences all within easy reach.
For more information, including tickets, travel inspiration, accommodation and transport options, visit: www.archibaldprizegippsland.com.au for details.
Image: Julia Ciccarone, The sea within, oil on linen © the artist – photo by Felicity Jenkins | AGNSW
Note: The Gippsland Art Gallery complies with COVID-19 safe regulations.