The University of New England School Acquisitive Art Prize (UNESAP) is held annually with the purpose of encouraging talented young artists in regional New South Wales. UNESAP has been developed through an on-going partnership with the University of New England and is in its seventeenth year.
This year, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the exhibition is being held online. Click on the tiles below to see the finalists in each category. 65 finalists from 30 schools were selected from the 450 entries received.
As with all previous years, the four First Prize-winning artworks will become a part of the UNE art collection and will be displayed around the University campus in Armidale.
Comments from Vice-Chancellor of the University of New England – Brigid Heywood
UNE is proud to sponsor the annual Student Art Prize held in collaboration with NERAM.
This year things are different, but everyone has risen to the challenge and the virtual exhibition allows the wider community to celebrate the creativity of students across the New England and wider region.
It’s another great example of how the students, teachers, art galleries and universities have come together to meet the challenges presented by COVID-19.
Arts education plays a vital role in student development and I would like to congratulate everyone who has contributed to UNESAP 2020 and encourage our community to explore the wonderful virtual exhibition.
Judge’s comments – Paula Jenkins
I was very impressed with the calibre of artworks chosen as finalists for the UNESAP ‘Let’s Hang It’ competition. There was such a variety of styles and approaches which made the judging all the more exciting. I was particularly looking for technical skill, creativity and imagination. The decision making wasn’t easy as there were so many fabulous creations. I congratulate everyone who took part overall, as being creative in any way, shape or form is a wonderful skill and interest to take forward in life.
UNESAP Let’s Hang It! is presented by New England Regional Art Museum in partnership with the University of New England and is sponsored by S&S Creativity.
