Image: Lauren Downton Interfusetranstwine – credit James Field
In a grand celebration of emerging artistic talent, the Helpmann Academy has once again illuminated the path for the rising stars of tomorrow with its 2024 Graduate Exhibition. This year, the Academy has outdone itself by awarding over $82,000 in opportunities to the most promising creatives from South Australia, marking a significant milestone in its 30-year history of fostering artistic excellence.
Since its inception in 1994, the Helpmann Academy has been steadfast in its mission to champion the visions of South Australia’s emerging creatives, helping them to build sustainable practices in the arts. As the Academy commemorates its 30th anniversary, the annual Graduate Exhibition shines brighter than ever, serving as a crucial launchpad for the next generation of artists and connecting them with the contemporary art world.
The exhibition, showcasing the works of 22 visual artists from Flinders University and the University of South Australia, is hosted at the University of South Australia’s South Australian School of Art (SASA) Gallery in Kaurna Yarta/Adelaide’s West End. From February 16 to March 22, 2024, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the wealth of young creative talent that our state has to offer.
The opening night was a spectacle of recognition and reward, with 17 awards valued at over $82,000 being presented. Among these, the introduction of The Fetzer Award, valued at $7,500, stood out as a major highlight, alongside new awards from People’s Choice Credit Union and Guildhouse.
PhD Research Candidate Max Callaghan was honored with the Helpmann Academy / University of South Australia Postgraduate Award, receiving a $10,000 cash prize for his outstanding achievements. Katey Smoker, a University of South Australia graduate, was another big winner of the night, securing the Helpmann Major Exhibition Award and the Helpmann Academy / ACE Studio Program Award, totalling $25,000 in value. These awards not only recognise her exceptional talent but also provide her with significant opportunities for professional development and exposure.
Lauren Downton, another University of South Australia graduate, was awarded the prestigious new Fetzer Award for Excellence, alongside the City Rural Insurance Development Award, offering her a fantastic opportunity to expand her creative practice.
The exhibition also celebrated the diversity of artistic mediums and approaches, with awards such as the JamFactory Ceramics Award, presented to emerging ceramicist Tiarnie Edwards, and the Hill Smith Art Advisory Award, received by Jess Harrison for her work in painting, drawing, or print.
New awards introduced in 2024, such as the People’s Choice Credit Union Innovation Award and the Guildhouse Award, underscore the Helpmann Academy’s commitment to recognizing and supporting innovative and diverse artistic expressions.
The Helpmann Academy Graduate Exhibition 2024 not only highlights the exceptional talent of South Australia’s emerging artists but also reflects the vibrant and dynamic nature of the contemporary art scene. With the generous support of its partners and award donors, the Helpmann Academy continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing the artistic careers of tomorrow’s stars.
As the exhibition runs until March 22, art enthusiasts and supporters are encouraged to visit the SASA Gallery and experience the inspiring works of these talented emerging artists. Entry is free, offering a perfect opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of creativity that South Australia has to offer.
FEATURED ARTISTS
Adrian Mitton
Alanah Kent
Anh Nguyen
Bryan May
Cameron Longshaw
Carrie Munn
Charlie Young
Eddie Normington
Emilia McDonald
HaiZzy
Jess Harrison
Katey Smoker
Katherine Shierlaw
Lauren Downton
Luna Chan
Madeleen Van Tonder
Maria Tomasic
Martina Beka
Max Callaghan
Tam Timko
Thao Le
Tiarnie Edwards
PROJECT CURATOR
Asha Southcombe
PRESENTING PARTNER
University of South Australia
AWARD JUDGES
Alison Kubler, Principle, Renshaw & Kubler and Editor in Chief, VAULT
Leigh Robb, Curator Contemporary Art, Art Gallery of South Australia
Vincent Alessi, CEO + Director, Linden New Art
CURATORIAL MENTOR
Anna Zagala, Associate Curator (Academic Engagement), Samstag Museum of Art
WHAT: Helpmann Academy Graduate Exhibition
WHEN: February 16 to March 22, 2024
WHERE: University of South Australia’s South Australian School of Art (SASA) Gallery in Kaurna Yarta/Adelaide’s West End
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