Bardia artist Vivian Messimeris says she wanted her entry in this year’s Liverpool Art Society exhibition to raise awareness about the diverse but disappearing biodiversity of our local area.
The artwork, A Degree of Difference (Regent Honey Eater), a silkscreen print on cotton rag paper, ended up winning the inaugural Werriwa prize, offered by the local member of the federal electorate of that name, Anne Stanley.
It is currently hanging in the Casula Powerhouse arts centre, alongside all the finalists in this year’s exhibition.
Ms Messimeris says the Regent Honeyeater is an endangered bird found in the woodlands of Badgerys Creek.
Ms Stanley met with Ms Messimeris and congratulated her on winning the inaugural Werriwa art prize.
“It is an honour to present an award that promotes and celebrates the creative talent in our local region,” Ms Stanley said.
The winning artwork had to reflect the electorate of Werriwa and that is what Ms Messimeris did in depicting the critically endangered Regent Honeyeater.
The artwork aims to raise awareness about the need to conserve our unique wildlife.
“Not only is it a stunning artwork, but it also carries a strong and vital message,” Ms Stanley said.
“It is a pleasure and privilege to have this piece grace the cover of my 2021 Christmas card.
“A Degree of Difference is a beautiful artwork and I thank Vivian for her wonderful contribution to the community,” Ms Stanley said.
A Degree of Difference also won second prize in the drawing or original print category of this year’s exhibition.
