The annual figurative art competition, coordinated by the Orange Art Society, is funded thanks to the generous donation of money and art by member Hank Spirek.

Although better-known for his birdlife artworks, Hank said the human form is his favourite subject matter.

“Figurative drawing has always been important to me,” Hank told Orange City Life when the prize was first announced, “and I had thought for some time to try and find a way to encourage that branch of art… I thought this might stir the Orange art scene up a bit.”

The inaugural prize in 2023 attracted  54 entries, and 2024 is already shaping up to be even bigger.

The prize is open to artists of any level and experience. Entries can be in any medium but must be two-dimensional and an interpretation of the human form.

Entry costs $20 and there is a $1000 prize pool up for grabs, with first place receiving $750 and second place $250.

Entry forms (available from the Orange Art Society gallery, or contact them by email) and art are to be delivered to the gallery between April 6-12, 2024.

Works will be judged on Saturday, April 13, by the Orange Regional Art Gallery. The official opening and announcing of the winner will take place on Sunday, April 14.

Each entry will receive a bottle of wine with a custom label with their entry artwork (18+ yrs only).

The Orange Art Society  Gallery is located in the Cultural Centre, 22 Sale Street, Orange (opposite Harris Farm Markets).

For more details visit orangeartsociety.com.au or email art@orangeartsociety.com.au