Winners of IHC Telecom Art Awards announced

25 September 2008
Nelson artist Chris Tilly has won the 2008 IHC Telecom Art Awards, announced at a ceremony at TheNewDowse in Lower Hutt on 24 September.

Chris, who attends Nelson creative space Community Art Works, won $5000 for his painting, The Barn. The judges said the work was very expressive and beautifully painted. "It is like a freeze-frame. Something is about to happen."

Chris has been painting all his life and focuses on landscapes, with a particular interest in volcanoes. "I like art because it keeps me occupied and I work with different teachers learning different techniques,” he said. “It keeps my passion going, sells to make money and gives me an interest."

Second place was Hamilton artist Hone Paekau for his work Highout and Blackout. Judges said the work was “a major piece that showed tremendous control in use of materials and colour”. Hone won $2000.

Two third places were awarded to Sasha Rae from Christchurch and Anne Pamment from Hamilton. Judges said Sasha's work, Two Figures, was “a great composition. The placement on the paper is terrific. It is simple but packs a punch.”

Anne's painting, Tudor History, was described as "lovely and delicate. It has little hidden treasures in it. There is a nice bit of domesticity along with the Tudor history."

The judges were David Elliot, illustrator and author, Gavin Bishop, illustrator and Claire Regnault, curator. They commended all the artworks for their variety, quality and individualism.

As the 30 finalists’ artwork was projected on to a screen, the song Special Star - composed and sung by artist Amy Szostak - was played. Another feature of the ceremony was the auction where guests bidded for the finalists’ artworks.

Marianne Taylor, Executive Director of Arts Access Aotearoa, congratulated all the finalists and the creative spaces that support their artistic aspirations. She also commended Telecom for its ongoing commitment to the awards.

“There was a very warm, professional atmosphere at the awards ceremony, and the artists and their work received the respect they deserved,” she said.