Tuinna Blackie, ‘The Boab’, Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe 2021. Photo Louise Coghill
New Zealand-born, Fremantle based artist Tuinna Blackie was the favourite out of 70 artworks by Western Australian, interstate and international artists. ‘The Boab’ is a captivating, large-scale stainless steel structure sited by the water’s edge reflecting the sun, surf and sky and has attracted the attention of visitors and photographers across the 18-day exhibition.
Blackie commented on receiving the award, “I’m so grateful and thankful to receive the EY People’s Choice Prize. Thank you to EY, to Metro Steel Services for your support and to Sculpture by the Sea for giving me the opportunity to show my work. Finally, thanks to all the people who took the time to come to Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe and vote for ‘The Boab’. In my heart, I knew it was something special but didn’t realise how special.”
EY’s Managing Partner Western Region Fiona Drummond said, “On behalf of EY, congratulations to Tuinna Blackie on her brilliant piece of art that has captured the hearts and minds of the people of Western Australia.
“EY is proud to be a sponsor of this iconic event for the past eight years. Every year the Sculpture by the Sea team puts together a fantastic exhibition that is enjoyed by all, providing an opportunity for the community to open, expand and inspire their minds.
“The past twelve months have been challenging for many of us, especially the arts community. So we are thrilled to see West Australians coming out to support these local and international artists right here on our stunning coastline of Cottesloe Beach.”