Mural Fest 2023 – Winners Announced

PRESS RELEASE

The nine Finalists raced to the finish line with brushes down on Saturday 11th November at 4pm. After painting for six consecutive days from the early hours of the morning into the evenings, a sense of a surreal accomplishment and joy filled Mural Park in Sheffield.

President of Kentish Arts Commerce and Tourism, Sandy Brattstrom commented ‘It was wonderful watching the artists progressing their murals inspired by ‘The Spirit of Adventure’ over the six days as they raced towards the finishing line – their murals evolving as the finer details were added.’

The winners were announced Saturday afternoon, shortly after ‘Brushes Down’, with the artists and their families joined by sponsors, special guests, Mural Fest volunteers, and members of the public.

Inder Prize – People’s Choice Award – $15,000

‘The Spirit of Adventure’

By Kerry Nicholson assisted by Malcolm Nicholson (QLD)

Sponsored by Working Arts Space Sheffield

Mural Description:

A fantastical scene of pioneer balloonists through a child’s eyes, perhaps an explorer’s son envisioning his future adventures. Adventure to me, echoes childhood’s enchantment: from tales like Jeremiah Johnson; It’s the boundless curiosity in young hearts. While not an adventurer, I’ve voyaged vast mental landscapes, never outgrowing youthful daydreams.

People’s Choice Runner-Up Award – $5000

Sponsored by Slaters Country Store

‘Everyday A New Adventure’

By Patricia Smart assisted by Olaf Grohs (NSW)

Sponsored by Sheffield Pioneer Holiday Units

Mural Description:

Children encapsulate the spirit of adventure. To them, the natural world is big, amazing, and exciting. I wanted to capture this spirit felt by children as they explore and experience the adventure that is life.

‘Kentish Arts Commerce and Tourism would like to thank all our sponsors led by Davies Design & Construction for their most generous support of Mural Fest this year, our wonderful volunteers for giving of their time so freely and enthusiastically and once again congratulate our nine extraordinary artists.’ This year’s success belongs to you all.’

The murals will remain on display at Mural Park in Sheffield over the next eleven months. 

Save The Date – Mural Fest 2024 – 4th – 9th November