Young Artists Encouraged to Apply for Brenda Clouten Memorial Art Scholarships
Applications are now open for the 2022 Brenda Clouten Memorial Art Scholarships, now in its 15th year at Maitland Regional Art Gallery, which supports young artists who live and work in the Lower Hunter.
The scholarships support two young achievers in visual arts to undertake a program of professional development either through study, travel, research or studio support.
It’s open to young artists who live or work in the Lower Hunter, 35 years or under at the time of application, can demonstrate current and recent art practice, and can outline how the scholarship would be used to extend or develop their practice.
The winner of the Scholarship will be awarded a $5,000 cash prize, and the runner up $3,000.
Gallery Director, Gerry Bobsien says the scholarship is one of Maitland Regional Art Gallery’s most popular projects and a fantastic opportunity for young artists to showcase their work.
‘We’ve hosted this scholarship at Maitland Regional Art Gallery for 15 years now, and we can’t wait to see what the 2022 edition has in store,’ Bobsien says.
‘This scholarship has provided opportunities for artists to travel and develop new work for years now. There is a long list of Brenda Clouten alumni out there making their mark as artists and we’re expecting more strong entries from our art community this year.’
The scholarship was founded by former Deputy Mayor of Maitland Vicki Woods and her husband Bruce Woods in honour of their friend Brenda Clouten, who passed away at the age of 60.
‘Brenda was an amazing person and always seeing the good in everyone. She always put others before herself. Even at her sickest moments she would always ask after you,’ Vicki and Bruce said.
‘She loved the good things in life and always lived for the moment. This scholarship in Brenda’s name is our way of creating a lasting memorial that will give benefit to young and upcoming talent in the Hunter area and keep Brenda alive in our hearts.’
Finalists will get the chance to exhibit their current work at Maitland Regional Art Gallery from 20 August to 6 November, with the winners to be announced at an invitation only event in August.
Applications opened on Wednesday 27 April, and will close at 5.00pm on Friday 27 May. You can enter by visiting mrag.org.au.
