The Friends of Pātaka Art Awards 2024 has officially opened with a record-breaking 94 works on display, marking the largest exhibition in the event’s history. This year, 34 first-time artists are among those showcasing their creations at Pātaka Art+Museum’s Bottle Creek Gallery, in Porirua. The exhibition, which runs until 15 September, features a diverse array of works from local amateur and professional artists. All pieces are available for purchase.
The exhibition’s opening on 25 July also served as the awards ceremony, celebrating both the artists and their supporters. Emma Hercus claimed the top honour, the Open Award, with her piece titled “Listening to the Sea.” Hercus, who previously won the Creativity and Promise Scholarship in 2019, will now have the opportunity to be Pātaka’s Artist in Residence for a month, with full access to the gallery’s facilities.
Other winners included Fran Zukowski, who earned the Highly Commended Award for “Green Haze,” and Rhona Orr, who received the First Time Entry Award for “Leafless in Papakowhai.” Another newcomer, Bert van Dijk, was awarded the Creativity and Promise Scholarship for his work “Pivotal Moment,” which grants him a six-month Level 4 Certificate at the Learning Connexion.
Judges praised the high calibre, diversity, and skill exhibited across various media in this year’s submissions. The event was further enriched by remarks from Ana Sciascia, Director of Pātaka, and Porirua Mayor Anita Baker, who expressed their support for the awards and the local art community.
This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Friends of Pātaka Art Awards, an event dedicated to celebrating and nurturing artistic talent in the Porirua area. Past winners of the awards have often gone on to pursue their art more seriously, bolstered by the confidence and recognition gained from participating.
A final prize, the Viewers’ Choice Award, will be decided by exhibition-goers and awarded at the close of the exhibition, with the winner receiving $500.
