Respected trio announced as Cossack Art Awards judging panel

A trio of respected Australian artists and designers will converge on the historic settlement of Cossack to judge the prestigious City of Karratha Cossack Art Awards.

Kamilaroi man and former Cossack Art Awards Artist in Residence Ross Potter will be joined by artist and writer Gregory Pryor and fibre artist Sharyn Egan as this year’s judging panel.

Ross uses pencil and paper to produce highly detailed, often large-scale representations of his subjects. He has been presented in numerous exhibitions and was shown in the Fremantle Biennale and at Boola Bardip WA Museum. 

With a career spanning more than 35 years, Gregory Pryor has been the recipient of residencies and prizes, most recently as a winner of the 2021 Splash contemporary watercolour award, at the McClelland Art Gallery, Victoria.

Meanwhile, Noongar artist Sharyn Egan is known for her fibre art, sculpture and painting, having had her works exhibited nationally. She has also created public art in Western Australia, including commissions for Scarborough Beach, Yagan Square, and Elizabeth Quay. Her works are often featured in Sculpture by the Sea at Cottesloe and Bondi.

City of Karratha Mayor Daniel Scott said the Cossack Art Awards continue to attract accomplished artists with diverse backgrounds.

“Our judges come from diverse backgrounds and are well-respected in their fields. I can't wait to see how each of them brings their unique artistic vision to this year's exhibition," Cr Scott said. 

“It’s great to have former Artist in resident Ross Potter and 2021 judge Sharyn Egan return to our region for these awards.

“I have no doubt this year’s panel will have their work cut out for them as they consider the high-quality submissions entered by talented artists from across Australia.”

Rio Tinto Managing Director Rail, Port and Core Services Richard Cohen said, “One of the best parts of supporting the Cossack Art Awards for the past years has been witnessing the incredible talent and diversity of artists from across Australia. 

“This year, our esteemed judging panel will no doubt share in that privilege, bringing their unique perspectives to the selection process and making it a truly remarkable event.”

The winners of this year’s Cossack Art Awards to be announced Friday, 18 July. 

The Cossack Art Awards are presented by the City of Karratha with principal partner Rio Tinto.