Finalists announced in Australian Arts in Asia Awards
The finalists for the inaugural Australian Arts in Asia Awards have been announced, with the winners being named at an event tomorrow, August 1.
Dance performers Legs On The Wall
In a statement announcing the finalists, Arts Minister Tony Burke said the awards “recognise, celebrate and promote the significant number of Australian artists engaging in Asia, contributing to stronger, deeper and broader cultural links with Asian nations.”
"Australia's engagement in Asia isn't simply about trade, business and foreign affairs, there is a dynamic creative engagement which allows Australian art to be experienced in Asia, great works from Asia to be available here and most importantly fresh creativity which is only possible because of the way we work together,” he said.
“The event will publicly recognise Australia's dynamic arts sector for its creative achievements in Asia.
"These inaugural awards showcase the work of Australian artists, writers, filmmakers, performance artists and arts organisations in Asia over the past 12 months.
"This event is a celebration of diversity in Australia and across the region and how making connections through art promotes understanding and appreciation of all cultures."
The 69 finalists were nominated in categories including partnerships, philanthropy, Indigenous, community engagement, innovation, individual artist, small to medium arts organisations, major arts organisations, visual art, literature, theatre, dance, music, and digital and film.
They include writer James Aitchison, the Sydney Youth Orchestra, dance artistes Legs on the Wall, filmmaker Yvette Coyne and the Bangarra Dance Theatre.