Artists picture their memories

WORKS in this year’s Southern Buoy Studios’ Landscape Prize (above) Janet Green, The Cups, Boneo Road (below clockwise from left): Billy Nye, Mt Eliza, Williams Road; Sophie Perez, We’ve been together in a time before now; Paul McIntyre, Moonah Trees Entwine, Sorrento; Stella Greig, Blue Horizon #18 Flinders.

AN exhibition opening in Mornington later this month will show the Mornington Peninsula as seen through the eyes of 58 artists.

The artists will explore the beauty of the region for the Southern Buoy Studios’ 2019 Landscape Prize through their works on show from Saturday 31 August to Saturday 28 September.

“Our aim is to showcase a variety of well-known and emerging artists,” the studio’s program and marketing manager Rachel Doyle said. “The familiar becomes new through paint; narratives and recollections are projected to create a dialogue with the viewer. Works immerse us in the experience of the Mornington Peninsula and celebrate the connection to place these artists share.”

Finalist Billy Nye spoke of her painting Williams Road, Mt Eliza: “Telegraph poles. Road signs. Nature strips. The smell of salt water as Lou Reed’s voice beckons through Dad’s radio: ‘Hey babe, take a walk on the wild side’. These things are the snapshots of my childhood – trips in our Holden Monaro to Mt Eliza beach, with Williams Road as the backdrop.

“To me, Williams Road was, and remains, a sanctuary. Among the chaos of construction, the clamour of time, new homes and disappearing backyards, Williams Road is a throwback to the quaint suburban landscapes that I grew up with; one that, despite all odds, has stood the test of time.”

Doyle said Southern Buoy Studios “continues to engage with the community as a not-for-profit space, encouraging a new understanding of the arts through a dynamic program of exhibitions and educational projects”.

Another finalist, Sophie Perez: “This exhibition is so important to many artists working as part of the thriving peninsula community.

“To have the opportunity to exhibit at SBS is extremely gratifying; it gives emerging artists the platform to connect with the community who are interested in supporting the arts through the purchase of works.

“We play a key role in keeping this unique space running for future initiatives, with all the revenue raised from sales going straight back into the gallery for events and bigger prizes.”

Guest judge Jennifer Riddle will present $2000 to the work judged best in show on opening night, from 6pm, Saturday 31 August.The people’s choice award will be determined by a public vote and named at the end of the exhibition.