Nasato collects 2024 Margaret River Art Prize win

Margaret River artist, Cindy Nasato has been crowned the winner of the 2024 Margaret River Independent School (MRIS) $5000 Margaret River Art Prize for her acrylic and metallic ink abstract design “Jonathon Livingstone Seagull the 1st“.

The prize has been awarded as part of the 19th Annual Margaret River Art Auction, a fundraiser for the school which attracts a huge range of artworks from talented creatives across the region.

“I’m absolutely thrilled and honoured to receive the Margaret River Art Prize,” Cindy said following the announcement.

“This recognition means so much to me, and I’m truly grateful for the support and encouragement I’ve received.

She saved a special thanks to the school and the annual competition.

“Your commitment to the arts and to our community is invaluable,” she said.

“I’d also like to acknowledge the incredible talent of my fellow artists.

“Your work inspires me, and I’m honoured to be part of such a vibrant and creative community.”

The artist explained her inspiration stemmed from the beloved classic tale, ‘Jonathan Livingston Seagull’ by Richard Bach, which follows the life of Jonathan, a seagull who defies the societal norms of his flock by becoming obsessed with flight.

“Jonathan Livingston Seagull the 1st is a metaphor for my own artistic journey of self-discovery,” Cindy said.

“Like the seagull who defies his flock’s expectations to pursue his passion for flight, as an artist I sought to break away from traditional styles to express myself uniquely.

“Just as Jonathan strives for perfection in his aerial feats, I am constantly pushing my boundaries and experimenting with new techniques.

“The story emphasises the importance of individuality, a cornerstone of my artistic expression.

“I hoped to find my own voice and style to create meaningful work.

“Similar to Jonathan’s challenges in his quest for freedom, I encountered setbacks, criticism and self-doubt as many artists do. However, my passion and perseverance helped overcome these obstacles.”

MRIS Principal, Wendy Roediger thanked Cindy for her generous contribution and congratulated her on winning the coveted art prize.

Judges Charlie and Chris Churcher from REDSEA Gallery highlighted Cindy’s “very interesting” technique.

“The mixing of inks, composition and blending is fantastic,” they said.

“How the seagulls are depicted is not obvious, so it draws you in.

“The depths of the ocean, details within the seaweed, wispy sky and subtleness of the seagulls are stunning.

“You could look at this painting every day and still see or imagine something different. It’s a stunning piece.”

Also receiving high commendations from the judges were Francesco Geronazzo for Banksia Pod 2023.

The way Francesco has used the band of colour draws you into the image.

“His composition is very clever yet subtle; the pod being off-centre and the way the print is positioned on the paper. The detail of the etching is fabulous too.”

Honor Denby also received high commendation for her piece, On the Fence.

“Honor has created a beautiful and unique art piece,” the judges said.

“Her use of bright, shiny colours and rustic components gives a feel of vintage nostalgia with a modern twist, the 1920’s meets the 60’s.

“I love artworks that use reclaimed materials.

“They make you think about what the objects were used for and who used them in their previous life, this can be very intriguing.”

The Annual Margaret River Art Auction will be held on Saturday, 2 November at Margaret River HEART Nala Bardip Mia from 6pm.

Tickets are $35 and include a light supper and glass of Margaret River wine or beer.

Tickets are available at events.humanitix.com/19th-annual-margaret-river-art-auction