AUSTRALIA’S most irreverent portrait award, The Bald Archy Prize, officially opened at the National Cartoon Gallery in Coffs Harbour on Thursday 23 April.
A counterpoint to the revered Archibald Prize, The Bald Archies showcase witty and satirical caricatures of distinguished and well-known Australians.
The irreverent and entertaining exhibition is on a year-long tour around regional NSW and Victoria, bringing accessible, entertaining and thought-provoking art to regional communities.
Over 60 people attended the Coffs Harbour opening, all seeing first-hand the lighter side of portraiture.
Gallery manager Bruce Nelson said the turnout was heartening, given the two-year hiatus since the exhibition was last at the gallery.
“A lot of people have been telling me the exhibition is very popular, and it certainly demonstrated that through the turnout for our opening night,” he said.
“We anticipate strong attendance numbers over the next few weeks, especially as it’s the only place you’ll be able to see it anywhere in the region.
“The entrants this year are also of very high calibre with portraits of our most loved entertainers and not-so-beloved politicians all making great fodder for the prize.”
The exhibition runs until 24 May.
By Andrea FERRARI
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