We are thrilled to congratulate acclaimed artist Lori Pensini on being selected as a finalist in The Jury Art Prize 2025 with her evocative painting 'Once we rode #2'. The prestigious exhibition will run from 7 June - 18 July at the Courthouse Gallery+Studio in Port Hedland, WA. The Jury Art Prize has become one of regional Western Australia's most anticipated annual exhibitions, including both a jury-selected winner and a People's Choice Award, encouraging diverse perspectives in appreciation and evaluation of art.

Artist Statement:

"This work opens up converstations around the saying "Australia rode on the sheep's back" and references the histroric role of the sheep industry in Australia and the current sentiment. The first sheep arrived in Australia with the First Fleet 1788 and quickly became the first major export industry and a primary source of economic wealth for colonial Australia. Now, some 200 years on the wool industry is still the backbone of many rural towns and opinions around the environmental impact, animal welfare issues and industry viability are polarising our communities. In the style of 18th century European painter Eugene Joseph Verboeckhoven, I have painted a flock of sheep at a drying creek bed depicting our recent drought in the South West of Western Australia. Contrastingly, the scene is embedded on my daughters sheepskin baby rug, acknowledging the sustainable natural fibre as a source of warmth and comfort despite the current political discourse."

Lori Pensini has the ability to entwine historical context, environmental commentary and emotional intimacy in a single frame which continues to affirm her place as one of Western Australia's most thoughtful and compelling artists. We encourage everyone to expience 'Once we rode #2' in person at The Jury Prize 2025 if you can.