Artist’s striking ink and pastel portrait wins 2023 Open Exhibition

Published on 09 August 2023

A striking ink and pastel portrait by artist Jessica John has taken out top honours at Frankston Arts Centre’s Annual Open Exhibition Prize for 2023.

Deputy Mayor Liam Hughes announced Ms John’s piece titled Cycle of Life as the winner before a large crowd at the arts centre’s Cube 37 venue.

“This major annual arts program delivered by Frankston City Council provides artists with the opportunity to address a chosen theme through their choice of medium.

“Whether it is a painting, sculpture, photography, video or textile – this year’s artists have explored the theme ‘Renew’.

“The theme is open to broad artistic interpretation and can be approached from a personal, social or cultural perspective,” the Deputy Mayor said.

He added: “Jessica’s stunning artwork Circle of Life is an absolute delight – shining with an essence key to this year’s theme of renewal and executed with amazing detail and skill.”

Ms John’s prize includes an exhibition and Opening Event at Frankston Arts Centre in 2024 and a cash prize of $1000.

Guest Judge Suzette Wearne, who is Assistant Curator at McClelland Art Gallery + Sculpture Park, helped select this year’s winner.

In selecting Ms John’s artwork, Ms Wearne said: “Circle of Life is a meticulously executed double portrait. Depicting an infant in the arms of an elderly man, the work is both allegorical and at the same time heartfelt and biographical. Without sentimentality, Jessica John celebrates the inexorable cycle of life.”

Ms John said she was chuffed to win the prize, adding: “It’s an absolute pleasure being involved … it’s what I love to do. Thanks to Frankston Arts Centre.”

Ms John estimated she had spent 50 to 60 hours creating her artwork.

Frankston Arts Centre Head of Programming, Heidi Irvine, praised the high standard and diversity of artworks, noting that just under 100 entries were accepted for the Open Exhibition Competition 2023 and considered for the prize.

Artworks entered for the Open Exhibition Competition, including Ms John’s piece, are now on display at Frankston Arts Centre’s Cube 37 Gallery until 25 August. Visit during open hours - Tuesday to Friday from 10am-5pm, or Saturday 9am-2pm.

Most of the artworks are for sale and enquiries regarding purchases can be made to Milla Dakovic via email at milla.dakovic@frankston.vic.gov.au.