LAUNCH ART PRIZE awarded

Religious tolerance and successful civil administration themes in this year’s winning work

Commercial and business firm Clayton Utz has awarded Sebastian Di Mauro its $10,000 LAUNCH Art Award for 2013.
Judge Maurice Ortega praised Di Mauro’s Pro Constantinus wall-based sculpture for its innovative use of materials and modernity.
Its "clear appreciation of history by thematically linking the work to Constantine as the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity,” was also a key to the judging, says Ortega, who is director of the Queensland Centre for Photography.
“(Constantine was also) a clear supporter of religious tolerance and a success as an administrator.
"The celebration of these attributes by such a unique work at this critical point in time made this work the clear winner for 2013.”
Di Mauro and two other artists were presented with awards at a cocktail function held at Utz’ Riparian Plaza offices during October.
Greer Townshend, for her charcoal drawing Mods and Rockers and Mark Standing, for his Rattling the Bones oil painting, received special commendations.
Ortega acknowledges the firm for supporting the “unique venture”.
“Our industry is grateful for the support given to local artists and the increasing recognition brought by this award.
“I believe the showcase in this award expresses unequivocally the quality and depth of talent of Queensland art."
The winning piece and those of 39 finalists will be displayed at Utz’ offices during the next 12 months.
LAUNCH is now in its sixth year and invites contributions in any medium from Queensland-based artists with a strong connection to the state
Past winners include photographic and performance artist Henri van Noordenburg in 2012, Kate Bernauer in 2011, Haruka Sawa in 2010, Gemma Smith in 2009, Dane Lovett and Martin Smith, both in 2008.
Utz thanks Lethbridge Gallery for managing the 2013 award for the third consecutive time.