NSW Parliament - Plein Air Painting Prize 2008
The winner of the Prize receives $20 000 and their work enters the
collection of the New South Wales Parliament
Allens Arthur Robinson is delighted to sponsor the New South Wales Parliament Plein Air Prize, with an inaugural award in 2008 of $20,000.
The term 'en plein air' refers to the practice of painting out of doors, engaging with nature and recording the transitory effects of light. Although it has a long history in Europe, Australian artists have also established a strong tradition of painting 'en plein air', with the climate and landscape proving conducive to this style. The Impressionists of the late 19th century, including Arthur Streeton and Tom Roberts, spent much of their time painting out of doors and brought a new understanding of Australian light and landscape to the public through their work. Studies painted out of doors were the foundation of the work by Fred Williams, a great master of landscape painting in the 20th century.
The Parliament Plein Air Painting Prize aims to recognise this great and often overlooked aspect of Australian painting. The exhibition will be held in the NSW Parliament building during May and the winning work enters the permanent collection of the NSW Parliament.
Allens Arthur Robinson's sponsorship of this important new painting prize reflects our commitment to Australian art, most notably reflected in our significant collection of more than 1000 unique and challenging works by Australian artists developed since the mid- 1970s. The Allens Arthur Robinson collection has today grown to become a significant survey of painting over the last three decades, reflecting the passion of former partner Hugh Jamieson, who established the collection.
By sponsoring the New South Wales Parliament Plein Air Prize, Allens Arthur Robinson is continuing its ongoing support of working artists and encouraging the development of Australian cultural expression.
For more information, please visit the website: http://www.pleinair.com.au.
