A diverse celebration of artists from Southland and beyond have been recognised for their endeavours in the ILT Murihiku Art Awards.
The winners of the second-ever event were named at an awards evening held at He Waka Tuia in Invercargill on Friday, 10 October.
He Waka Tuia Manager Sarah Brown said the awards received 155 entries, with the judges having selected 67 works as finalists, across seven categories.
“This year’s ILT Murihiku Art Awards are an exuberant celebration of the incredible artistic vision we have here in Southland and beyond, and we want to say a huge congratulations to the winners of this year’s awards,” she said.
“It is a privilege to be able to showcase the incredible talent of the artistic community, both here at home in Southland and from throughout the motu. The ILT Murihiku Art Awards are a brilliant celebration of artistry, innovation, and imagination, and it’s a privilege to be able to acknowledge and recognise the creativity of each of the finalists,” she said.
“We are really looking forward to sharing their works with our community during the coming weeks.”
The awards were judged by Suter Art Gallery Te Aratoi o Whakatū Director Toni Mackinnon and Dunedin Public Art Gallery Curator and art historian Lauren Gutsell.
Mackinnon said the artworks showcased artists from across New Zealand.
“After selecting the works from photographs, it was great to be face-to-face with the pieces. They look fantastic in the space,” she said.
Meanwhile, Gutsell said the finalists highlighted a dynamic range of mediums.
“There’s a huge range of materiality, from ceramics to photography, painting, and more – and each entry showcased unique voices and perspectives. It’s a great way to see work from Southland and across Aotearoa.”
An exhibition showcasing the artworks of finalists will be on display at He Waka Tuia until Sunday 17 November.
ILT Murihiku Art Awards 2025 – Winners
Rangatahi Award – $500
Billy Apu
Ice Cream Cat
Innovation Award – $1000
Paul McLachlan
Mai-mai on the Mataura
Beattie McDowell Mick Hesselin Memorial Award: Southland Artist – $2000
Daegan Wells
Bush Track
IPAG / SAS Membership award – $2000
Victoria Naboka
Saved
3rd Prize – $2000
Emily Hartley Skudder
Deluge Zone
2nd Prize – $4000
Jess Nicholson
Rock Table
Supreme Award – $8000
George Agius
Wā: Held in the Belly
