We are so proud of the four artists that have been selected as finalists in this year's Jury Prize - Lesley Meaney, Lori Pensini, Simon Hemsley and Mary-Lynne Stratton. The exhibition opening was on the 18th May and will be on display till 19th July 2024. Voting is open and you have a chance to vote for your favourites till the 18th of July, with winners announced on the 19th July. Go visit their website for more information:
https://thejunctionco.com.au/the-jury-art-prize-contest/

Artists Statements:
Lesley Meaney - A passion for lingering and loitering around trees in both North and South of the state has played a recurring role in my Arts Practice – our Eucalypts, particularly some, centuries old, which have witnessed all that has happened both before and after European settlement. In the North, eucalypts appear to be the ‘spirits of endurance’ with their every twist, turn and agony inflicted by drought or growth-retardant winds. In the South, near my studio the trees are generally taller and straighter. However, if you look closely at any trunk anywhere a smorgasbord of visual delights awaits. If you look closely at this ‘splintered painting’ you will see that I have painted two canvases, cut one into strips of different widths and sewn each strip, one by one, onto the bigger canvas. The resulting image is intended to be reminiscent of a barcode – an optical representation of my lingering observations. Southwest, WA. Acrylic and thread on canvas, 64cm (h) x 118cm (w)

Lori Pensini - Family is not only defined by blood, it is a linking between our lives and the land with a sense of belonging that is enduring and consequential for our well being across our whole life.This painting is my interpretation of the ‘healing’ powers of relationships and honours my friendship with Noongar elder Aunty Kathy and her capacity to give and support free of judgement and criticism. It is about coming together, sharing our family stories, past and present and standing up for each other in a meaningful way. The painted red gum blossom ‘yorgum’ in Noongar language promotes healing. Oil & ground burnt Jarrah on linen, 100cm (h) x 85cm (w)

Simon Hemsley - This painting depicts the unique sandstone Karst formations that make up the Bungle Bungle Ranges in Purnululu National Park  The ancient, evocative landscape has won Unesco World Heritage status and it's easy to appreciate why this area is of powerful cultural significance to the traditional owners, the Djaru and Giga people. In this artwork I've attempted to capture the sense of wonder Purnululu inspires in those privileged enough to experience it. Oil and ink, 95cm (h) x 150cm (w)

Mary-Lynne Stratton - This painting explores the ancient landscapes I keep revisiting. Walking through and painting in these places speaks to me of a powerful history and spirit embedded in the molten rock formations evolved over millions of years. The folding and layering of geology is a rich source of pattern and colour which seem to dance in the ever-changing light. The lyrical brush work and warm layered colours of reds, oranges, yellows and olive greens that make up the patterns of spinifex and grasses dotting the landscape attempt to convey my emotional response and awe I feel when I have these desert encounters. Oil on canvas, 126cm (h) x 126cm (w)