Pearl Beach art awards announced
The winners of the Pearl Beach Environmental Art Trail were announced at its official opening on Sunday, March 23.
The winner was Ms Joanne Mott, with Mr Andrew Alter and Ms Vanessa Drinkwater highly commended.
The school prize was won by Terrigal High School visual arts students, with highly commended prizes (under-16) going to Freya Gillet of Umina Beach Public School and Skye Neate of Norwest Christian College.
Judges described Ms Mott's winning entry, Drop Inns, as a "site-responsive art installation inspired by the Pearl Beach Arboretum ecosystem".
"Three droplet-shaped sculptures, woven from yucca leaves and clay, are suspended from a tree branch and serve the dual purpose of aesthetic artworks and experimental habitats for the threatened species.
"These sculptures highlight the urgency of addressing habitat loss for native wildlife, bridging contemporary art with environmental problem-solving.
"The sculptures are designed to support pygmy possum nesting in size and shape." Mr Alter's work, A Stretch of the Imagination, was designed to draw attention to, and symbolize, the magnificence of nature.
"Its paperbark mache and palm fronds allow us to imagine a giraffe in Pearl Beach." Ms Drinkwater's work, Colour Your World, "has been inspired by the leaf litter found in the Arboretum, the interactive nature of outdoor installations and the opportunity to bring colour and fun to your day." Terrigal High's work, Ephemeral Embrace, were "pods, woven from organic materials, crafted to mimic the delicate yet resilient forms of natural Nests".
"Each piece evokes a sense of sanctuary, drawing attention to the balance and symbiosis that exist within ecosystems.
"The pods invite contemplation on sustainability, nature's rhythm, and the vital need for ecological harmony." Prize money ranged from $3000 for the winner, down to $250 for school prizes.
The Art Trail has the theme Harmony through Nature and remains open until Sunday, April 27.
Voting for the People's Choice award is open until 5pm on Saturday, April 26.
Catalogs are available for a $5 donation.
SOURCE:
Website, 27 Mar 2025
Pearl Beach Arboretum