Prestigious Dobell Drawing Prize exhibition launches next week

The exhibition of Australia’s leading drawing prize will launch at SECCA (South East Centre for Contemporary Art) on Friday 9 May from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

Jane Grealy, Maria's Garden, Scheme C, 2022, pastel on paper, 67 x 108 cm, 97 x 133 cm (framed).

Jane Grealy, Maria’s Garden, Scheme C, 2022, pastel on paper, 67 x 108 cm, 97 x 133 cm (framed).

29 April 2025

The exhibition of Australia’s leading drawing prize will launch at SECCA (South East Centre for Contemporary Art) on Friday 9 May from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

SECCA Gallery Director, Janice Falsone said the 23rd Dobell Drawing Prize exhibition presents work created using a range of materials – from video to ash, charcoal, ink and watercolour – demonstrating the remarkable vitality and scope of contemporary drawing in Australia today.

“We are showcasing 46 of 64 finalists from the 2023 biennial prize, including the winning piece by artist Jane Grealey, which the judges said was beautifully executed, very skilful and expanded drawing to a different level with her layering of architectural elements,” Ms Falsone said.

“A highlight of our launch event will be a live drawing performance by exhibiting artist Luke Thurgate.

“Luke took a bold approach by entering a wall drawing into the prize and he’s been travelling with the exhibition to install his piece directly onto the walls at each venue.

“At SECCA, Luke will be recreating his work - I believe in you - live during the opening night and over the first few days of the show.

“Visitors will have the unique opportunity to observe Luke in action and gain insight into his masterful drawing techniques.”

Entry to the launch event and exhibition (10 May to 28 June) is free and all are welcome.

Event bookings can be made via this link: https://events.humanitix.com/dobell-drawing-prize-exhibition-launch-event-at-secca

SECCA is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm and Saturdays 10am to 2pm (closed Sundays and public holidays).

The biennial Dobell Prize for Drawing was established in 1993 and presented by the Art Gallery of New South Wales until 2012. Building on this legacy, the Dobell Drawing Prize has been presented by the National Art School since 2019.

Three Dobell Drawing Prize #23 judges, artist Catherine O’Donnell (also a previous Dobell Drawing Prize finalist), Paula Latos-Valier from the Sir William Dobell Art Foundation and National Art School Gallery Manager and Senior Curator Katrina Cashman, selected 64 finalists out of a record 1,062 entries.

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