Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Bissons Electrical People’s Choice Award at the 47th Hinchinbrook Art Awards has been awarded to The Catch, a painting by 17-year-old artist Hamish Darveniza. The work depicts a jaguar and a caiman engaged in a dramatic struggle, and attracted strong attention from visitors throughout the exhibition.
The painting was noted for its detailed realism and dynamic composition, which resonated with audiences and ultimately secured the popular vote.
Community and Cultural Services Portfolio Councillor Donna Marbelli said community engagement with this year’s exhibition had been particularly strong. She described the winning artwork as bold and full of energy, noting that the People’s Choice Award reflects a genuine public response to work that connects with viewers.
At just 17, Hamish is already building a successful career as an artist with recognition for a number of art works already under his belt.
The Hinchinbrook Art Awards continue to highlight creative talent from across the region and attract significant community interest each year. The event serves as one of North Queensland’s most anticipated cultural events and is hosted at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery in Ingham.
The awards have seen great success over the years, growing steadily in both scale and reputation and cementing their place as a cornerstone of the region’s cultural calendar. Each year, the Hinchinbrook Art Awards attract an increasing number of entries and visitors, reflecting a strong and ongoing appetite for the arts within the community. The exhibition not only provides a professional platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their work, but also encourages dialogue, education, and appreciation of visual art among local audiences.
Supporting the arts in the region is vital to nurturing creative talent, strengthening cultural identity, and enriching community life. Events such as the Hinchinbrook Art Awards help ensure that artists, particularly young and emerging creatives, have opportunities to be seen, valued, and celebrated close to home. They also deliver broader social and economic benefits, drawing visitors to the area and contributing to the vibrancy of local cultural spaces. Continued investment in regional arts affirms their importance as a means of expression, connection, and pride for the community as a whole.
Photo source: Facebook
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