Deanne Neilson, ‘Do You Realize’, Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe 2023. Photo Jessica Wyld
WA Artist Deanne Neilson has been selected by younger visitors as the recipient of the Kids’ Choice Prize at Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe 2023.
Deanne’s sculpture “Do You Realize?? “is made of 50,000 recycled bottle lids, stands six meters tall and is inspired by Japanese artist Hokusai. The Kids’ Choice Prize of $2,000 is funded by a donation from Emrys, Jasper and Rebel Penfold-Russell OAM.
Upon receiving the award, Deanne Neilson said, “I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to accept this Kids’ Choice Award for the 2023 Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe exhibition and my sincere thanks to the sponsor of this Award; Rebel Penfold-Russell, Emrys and Jasper. It means the world to me that the younger generation has enjoyed and appreciated my artwork. I believe that art has the power to bring people together, inspire, and ultimately change the world. I want to thank all of the kids who voted for me and saw something special in my work. Your support and encouragement mean a lot to me.
“I also want to thank the organisers of this amazing exhibition for providing a platform for artists of all ages, experience, and nationalities to showcase their talents. It has been a real privilege to be a part of this year’s exhibition, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I would like to take a moment to dedicate this Kids’ Choice Award to my Mum. Although she is not here to share this moment, she has been with me every step of the way. Thank you, Mum, for your love, your guidance, and your unwavering belief in me”.
David Handley, the Founding CEO and Artistic Director of Sculpture by the Sea, said, “Bruno Catalano and Deanne Neilson’s very different sculptures have delighted visitors at this year’s exhibition. Both artworks were runner-up for the popular vote award they didn’t receive. Thank you to Bruno, Deanne and all the artists for being part of this year’s exhibition.”