Art students win two prizes at Sculpture in the Paddock

ANU School of Art students have won two of four prizes on offer at the 2016 Sculpture in the Paddock event in Yass, rural New South Wales.

In its third year, Sculpture in the Paddock gives ACT region artists a chance to showcase their works in a paddock at Cooma Cottage on the outskirts of Yass. Each of the works are judged and prizes are given to the best four pieces of work.

Master of Visual Arts student Anton Poon won the ANU School of Art Award for his work titled Synergy, while Bachelor of Visual Arts student Keith Bender received the Yass Soldiers Club Encouragement Award for his work called Tracks: knowledge and understanding interrupted.

"I was elated to receive an award," Keith said.

"It was great to have my work recognised in this way and receive an award alongside Anton Poon. He is a talented sculptor with a bright future."

Anton's prize involves being able to present works at a solo exhibition. Six works, including Synergy, will also be presented at the 2016 end-of-year graduation exhibition at the School of Art.

"It's a pretty big achievement for me. The work that I've put in at the Sculpture in the Paddock is actually one of the largest in terms of size that I have ever made."

Anton had to save for the materials over two semesters, and he completed the work in two months.

Synergy, made of steel and designed to show signs of weathering, continues the themes of Anton's previous artworks related to creating new experiences.

"It's an acknowledgement of where I am going next," he said.

From Hong Kong, Anton hopes to become a permanent Australian resident. 

Both artists thanked the Sculpture Workshop and the School of Art for their support.

"Sculpture in the Paddock provides great exposure, typically attracting around 13,000 people through the gates over a four week period," Keith said.

"Coming to the end of my studies, this award is a great start for my art practice."