Experience the hottest contemporary art in Australia

Works from 40 leading Australian artists, showcasing the very latest contemporary art the nation has to offer, go on show at Caloundra Regional Gallery Friday August 18, in the Sunshine Coast Art Prize 2023 (SCAP) Exhibition.

The artworks offer a diverse portrayal of subjects in a range of styles, from traditional oils and acrylics to new media and digital compositions, that together, confront, celebrate, enlighten and engage.

Gallery Manager and Curator Jo Duke said the 40 finalist artworks offered a profound and unapologetic interpretation of our world today.

“Interestingly, this year’s works take a step away from the abstract, and a leap towards realism and expressive modes of making,” Ms Duke said.

“You’ll find the most pressing issues of today clamouring to be heard, juxtaposed against the beauty of our community and environment.

“The Sunshine Coast Art Prize 2023 exhibition also marks a shift towards new media, resulting in some innovative and thought-provoking submissions.”

Visitors to the gallery or the gallery website have until September 28, to vote for their favourite artwork for a chance to win a $100 gallery store voucher, which boats an ever changing array of unique pieces made by local artisans.

The winning artist takes props in the People’s Choice Prize category and $2500, sponsored by Caloundra Chamber of Commerce.

In addition to SCAP’s major $25,000 acquisitive prize (sponsored by Argon Law and Sunshine Coast Council), 40 finalists will be in the running for the $5,000 Highly Commended prize (Sponsored by the De Deyne Family), $2,500 People’s Choice prize (sponsored by Caloundra Chamber of Commerce), and the Artist Residency award (sponsored by Montville Country Cabins and the Gallery). There’s also an opportunity for two of the finalist artworks to be chosen for the Coastline BMW Art Cars.

Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said 2023 marked the 18th year of the Sunshine Coast Art Prize — the region’s flagship art award.

"The acquisitive art prize is part of Council’s collecting strategy, to build a significant cultural asset for the region, which can be enjoyed by current and future generations,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“Council’s continued investment in the Sunshine Coast Art Prize, together with that of generous local sponsors, philanthropists and partners, supports The Sunshine Coast Arts Plan 2018-2038 vision: ‘The soul of our community is our flourishing arts ecology: nurturing connections, promoting experimentation and inspiring collaboration’.

Be inspired by artistic talents

The scope and quality of the finalist works make for an impressive exhibition and will no doubt present a difficult decision for guest judge Simon Elliott and the visiting public as they vote for their favourite in the People’s Choice Award.

Stay up to date with all the latest news, events and exhibitions by subscribing to the e-newsletter at gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au or following @caloundraregionalgallery on facebook and Instagram.

Caloundra Regional Gallery is open from 10am until 4pm, Tuesday to Friday, 10am until 2pm weekends and is located at 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra.

Find out more about the Sunshine Coast Art Prize on the Gallery’s website https://gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/