James Drinkwater has won the 2014 Brett Whiteley Travelling Art Scholarship for his body of work, highlighted by his painting Port de bra, 2014.
Now in its 16th year, this scholarship for young Australian painters received 99 entries in which seven finalists were selected. A small selection of the finalists’ work is currently on display at the Brett Whiteley Studio in Sydney.
James Drinkwater, 30, lives and works in Newcastle, New South Wales. He recently took up classical ballet to further his artistic practice. Last year, Drinkwater was a highly commended Brett Whiteley Travelling Art Scholarship finalist.
This year’s judges were distinguished Australian painter Jude Rae and Head of Australian Art at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Wayne Tunnicliffe.
Commenting on the work of James Drinkwater, Jude Rae said: His body of work highlighted by ‘Port de Bra’ brings a distinct personal vision and a strong lyrical sensibility to a sound grasp of the material tradition of painting. James has already developed a substantial and well integrated practice that provides a sound basis for future work.
As the winner, Drinkwater receives $25,000 and a three-month residency at the Cité Internationale des Arts in Paris, which is administered by the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
The judges also highly commended Emma Beer’s work Heat waves and stature. Jude Rae commented: Her painting combines an elegant and sophisticated exploration of material process with an understanding of its historical precedents.
Brett Whiteley Studio
Until 26 October, 2014
Sydney
James Drinkwater, Port de bra (detail), 2014