Du Rietz Art Awards 2024 - Gympie's Premier Art Awards

Gympie’s prestigious Du Rietz Art Awards are returning, and artists from across Australia are invited to apply. Entries are now open and close 4 pm, Monday 1 July 2024.

The Du Rietz Art Awards are Gympie’s premier art awards. Named in honour of the architect of Gympie’s historic School of Arts building, Hugo Du Rietz, the Awards pay homage to the creativity and vision inspiring the design and build of such a significant cultural venue. 

Applications are open to all experience levels and finalists’ works will be displayed throughout Gympie Regional Gallery at the Du Rietz Exhibition from 23 August to 27 September 2024. The official opening and presentation of prizes is Friday, 30 August.

In 2023, Yanni van Zijl won the 3D Acquisitive Award and said she was overjoyed to receive the recognition.

“I was totally surprised when it was announced that I had won,” she said.

“I have entered many times over the years. The calibre of work is fabulous and it offers a range of styles and methods. The work is always beautifully displayed and curated. I hope to enter again this year but am yet to decide what work I have that is worthy enough!”

In 2024, there is an increase in prize money across most categories, with a total prize pool valued at over $16,000. The 2D Acquisitive Award first prize is valued at $6,500 and sponsored by a new business sponsor, Countrywide Metals. The 3D Acquisitive Award is valued at $3,500 and is sponsored by Budget Steel. The 2D Highly Commended Award is valued at $1,500 and sponsored by CAA Consulting, and the Ceramic Award, valued at $1,000, is sponsored by Gwyn Moore, Gympie Regional Council and Cooloola Potters Group. 

Finalists residing in the Gympie Regional Council local government area will be eligible for the Locals Award, which holds a prize value of $3,000 and is sponsored by Soma Soma Espresso Bar. The public can also visit the Gallery throughout the exhibition and vote for their favourite work to nominate artists for the People’s Choice Award. This year, the People’s Choice Award of $1,000 is sponsored by David and Sally Gartshore, Annette Reilly, Heinke Butt, and Drs Calin and Mihaela Negru-Radu.

Full entry details are available online at gympie.qld.gov.au/DRAA

Exhibition Dates: Friday 23 August – Friday 27 September 2024.
Official opening and presentation of prizes: Friday 30 August 2024.

Gympie Regional Council would like to acknowledge the generous contributions and support of all Du Rietz Art Awards sponsors.

Entry to the Gympie Regional Gallery at 39 Nash Street is free, with opening hours from 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday. 

Image credit: Yanni van Zijl, 2023 3D Acquisitive Award Winner, ‘Life’s a Journey,’ Du Rietz Art Awards, 2023.