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Max Pattè has been announced as the supreme winner of this year’s ILT Art Awards for his piece, Animal Magnetism. The striking lightwork morphs between hues of pinks and blues, subtly influencing the mood of the space and drawing viewers in. The judges found “harmony in the mathematical accuracy” of the work.
“I have to admit I was like a moth to a flame,” notes judge Lynn Taylor, “this sculpture ticks all the boxes as a blend of art, design, technical skill, innovation, and creativity combined with modern materials and technology.”
A former sculptor at Weta Workshops, Pattè is renowned for his iconic sculpture Solace in the Wind, the brass figure leaning out over Wellington’s harbour. His patron list includes the likes of Sir Michael Hill and Sir Ian McKellen.
Pattè’s lightwork was selected from the 104 ILT Art award finalists, drawn from entries from across the country.
Former City Gallery Manager, Gemma Baldock acknowledged the generosity of the ILT for supporting these annual awards, expressing, “it’s great to have the awards opened nationally, to lift the profile of Art in Southland.” The eclectic exhibition is an impressive example of the talent drawn to the area. From Thomas Lawley’s irreverent bronze Banana for Scale and Baldock’s own macabre Bounty, to the intricate Huruhuru XVII by Rosalind Moseby “there’s something here for everyone,” observed Marion Miller, of City Gallery.
Winners are selected by judges Lynn Taylor and Jim Gilmour. Honorable mentions went out to Huruhuru XVII by Rosalind Moseby, the unmissable feather cloak, “it is a taonga, a treasure reflecting the dedication and love the artist has put in.” Also Francis (Peter) Nichols for his oil work: Lower Garden Panorama.
Winner of the Southland Resident Award, Katherine Buess’s Blueprint, impressed the judges with a balance between technical precision and “evidence of the hand of the maker.”
“Wallpapers, photographs, and textures form different readings depending on if you view the work up close or far away,” and there’s a surprise on the back of the work.
All works are available for purchase in the gallery, although Pattè’s piece has been snapped up by Suzanne Prentice on behalf of the ILT.
The exhibition is open until September 2nd.
SUPREME AWARD – Max Pattè, Animal Magnetism
2ND PRIZE – Allesha Ballard, The Sound of Silence.
3RD PRIZE – Karen Scott, Introduced
SOUTHLAND RESIDENT AWARD – Katherine Buess, Blueprint.
YEAR 11 – 13 FIRST PRIZE – Laura Wallace, Containment.
The winner of the ILT People’s Choice Award will be revealed on Monday 4th September.