Bay of Fires Art Prize 2026

My work, ‘Summer Crush’ 2026, was selected as a finalist in this years Bay of Fires art prize, held in St Helens over the June long weekend. It was great to be able to attend the opening event, meet up with other finalists and congratulate George Kennedy when he was announced this years winner. The theme for this years prize was ‘everyday miracles’. Thanks to the judges this year - Katy Woodroffe, Jo Chew and Maureen Varnavsky - for including my work.

This was the artists statement included with my entry -

‘Summer Crush’ is a collage created from my botanical linocuts of common native plants found in Tasmania’s alpine regions. Previously a native flower farmer, I’m now fascinated by the growth habits of native plants in these harsh alpine environments. Scoparia and Orites are common species, and cover extensive areas of our highland wetlands. Largely overlooked until they flower, in summer these plants announce themselves with with their blooms, elevating them from ‘ground cover’ into everyday miracles, thriving in our harshest landscapes.

*Photo below includes artists Susan Simonini, George Kennedy (2026 Winner) and Grace Gladdish.

‘Summer Crush’ 2026 Collaged Linoprints and Watercolour on Paper 66 cm h x 129 cm w