Over 50 portraits will be making their way to Bunjil Place Gallery this spring in Victoria’s exclusive display of the prestigious Archibald Prize.
As the first stop on the Archibald Prize 2022 regional tour, the exquisite Bunjil Place Gallery will host the popular prize for portraiture between 3 September to 16 October. This is expected to bring many thousands of visitors to Narre Warren and surrounds to enjoy the works on display and the immersive program of events and art experiences in the stunning outdoor plaza space.
Now in its 101st year, the Archibald Prize is recognised as Australia’s favourite and most significant art award with over 800 portraits judged by the trustees of the Art Gallery of NSW. Since 1921 the Archibald Prize has highlighted figures from all walks of life, from famous faces to local heroes, reflecting the stories of our times.
The display at Bunjil Place Gallery will feature the notable Packing Room Prize winner Claus Stangl with his portrait of director, writer, actor and producer Taika Waititi alongside 2022 Archibald Prize winner Blak Douglas with his portrait of Wiradjuri artist Karla Dickens, titled Moby Dickens.
Bunjil Place is one of Victoria’s newest cultural spaces and the City of Casey’s popular entertainment precinct. The name and striking architectural design of the space is inspired by Bunjil, the creator spirit of the Kulin nation, who takes the form of a Wedge-tailed eagle in ancestral narratives. The creation stories pass on important knowledge, cultural values and belief systems to later generations that merge traditions and practice responsibilities for looking after Country.
Bunjil Place is a meeting hub for the cultural community featuring a uniquely designed outdoor plaza, library, theatre and the stunning gallery in which the Archibald Prize 2022 will be displayed.
City of Casey Chair of Administrators, Noelene Duff PSM said it was a great honour to have Australia’s most prestigious prize on display at the world-class Bunjil Place Gallery.
“Being the first stop and exclusive Victorian venue on the Archibald Prize’s regional tour is an absolute coup for our region,” Ms Duff said.
“This internationally renowned art prize will draw many visitors to the City of Casey, and we can’t wait to put on our own display showing the vibrancy, culture and creative experiences that makes Bunjil Place and its surrounds a premium destination.
“We hope visiting art lovers will explore the Bunjil Place entertainment precinct as well as adventuring to neighbouring spaces and places, foodie destinations, botanic gardens and parklands while they are here.”
The Archibald Prize 2022 will be on display at Bunjil Place Gallery, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren from 3 September to 16 October 2022.
