The Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award and exhibition has concluded for 2017 with the announcement of Penca Rafiqi as the winner of this year’s People’s Choice Award.

“We are excited to announce that Darwin born and Alice Springs based artist Penca Rafiqi’s portrait of Nanna Lena Cavanagh was voted by the public as their favourite artwork in this year’s Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award,” Director of the Araluen Cultural Precinct, Dr Mark Crees said.

“We would like to congratulate Ms Rafiqi on her deserved win.

“Ms Rafiqi has been creating art ‘for as long as she can remember’ and her portrait of Ms Cavanagh showcases her incredible skill and finesse in portraiture.”

One of the smaller artworks in this year’s exhibition, the portrait contains impressive detail and accuracy.

“Ms Rafiqi’s portrait stood out for a lot of visitors because it captures not only Ms Cavanagh’s facial features, but also her strength and personality,” Dr Crees said.

“To be voted, and overwhelmingly so, by the public as the standout work and the winner of the People’s Choice Prize is a wonderful achievement and just recognition for Ms Rafiqi.”

The Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award opened at the Araluen Arts Centre in Alice Springs in April before recently traveling to Darwin and was seen by 5,500 people.

This year 33 works of art were submitted to the prize from artists across the Northern Territory.

The People’s Choice Award is awarded by the votes from gallery visitors from both Alice Springs and Darwin.

The Northern Territory Government committed $58,000 towards the Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award to be exhibited in Alice Springs for the first time since it was initiated in 1999, as well as Darwin.

This contribution included $1000 for the winner of the People’s Choice Award and a $7000 Acquisition Award that was awarded to Henry Smith for his portrait of Craig San Roque.

The second prize winner of $2000 went to Jennifer Taylor for her portrait of Agnes Abbott, whilst the third prize of $500 went to Angus McIvor for his portrait of David Hewitt.

Smith’s portrait of Craig San Roque was awarded the prestigious prize for his technical artistic excellence and the portrayal of the inner life of his subject.

Media interview Araluen Cultural Precinct Director, Dr Mark Crees 08 8951 1126

Image: Penca Rafiqi, Akngerre Parte (Community Leader) Lena, 2017.  Winner of the Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award 2017 People’s Choice Award.