The Archibald Prize 2021 is now open at the Gippsland Art Gallery in Sale. On display until Sunday 21 November 2021, the Gippsland Art Gallery is the only place to see this extraordinary exhibition in Victoria as part of the Archibald Prize 2021 regional Australian tour.

Gippsland Art Gallery has curated a dynamic program of exciting events to be presented in conjunction with the exhibition, with plenty of fun and immersive options for visitors of all ages. Highlights include Pop Up Portrait Speed Dates,Portrait Play for Mini Makers, Guided Tours, Sunday Social Sketch and artist led Workshops.

Another exciting addition to the program is Friday Up Late, which will see the Port of Sale (which the Gippsland Art Gallery is located within) come alive with a rotating roster of local musicians delivering a mix of jazz, blues, rock and folk music. Featured artists include John Gibson Trio with Sue Kewming, Blanket Initiative, Sarah Wheeler and Olivia Lay. Visitors can wander through the exhibition before enjoying live music under the stars as they feast on local produce and sip on drinks from the pop-up Art Bar.

Celebrating its centenary this year, the Art Gallery of New South Wales’ Archibald Prize is Australia’s foremost portraiture prize. First awarded in 1921, it is the country’s oldest and most-loved portrait award, and one of its most prestigious. Awarded to the best portrait painting, the prize attracts entries from both prominent and emerging artists in Australia and New Zealand, and features celebrated figures from all walks of life.

A total of 938 artworks were submitted in this year’s Prize, the second highest number in the history of the award. A total of 52 artists were selected as finalists, with this year being the first that has seen a gender parity between the finalists.

All 52 finalists will be on display at the Gippsland Art Gallery including 2021 Archibald Prize winner, Melbourne based Peter Wegner’s portrait of fellow artist and centenarian Guy Warren. Also on display will be the Packing Room Prize winner, Kathrin Longhurst’s portrait of much loved singer Kate Ceberano and the People’s Choice winner, Melbourne based Julia Ciccarone with her stunning self-portrait titled The sea within.

Visitors to the exhibition are encouraged to plan a weekend escape or mid-week break to not only experience the Archibald Prize, but to enjoy everything else that the central Gippsland region has to offer. Sale is the ideal base for exploring the wider Gippsland region, with destinations such as 90 Mile Beach, Port Albert,Tarra Bulga National Park, Yarram’s Heesco murals and plenty of wineries and dining experiences all within easy reach. For further travel inspiration,accommodation and transport options, visit archibaldprizegippsland.com.au/plan-your-visit.

Tickets to the Archibald Prize 2021 in Gippsland are priced $17 for adults, $15 for seniors, $11 for concession (card holders + students) and $9 for children(ages 5-17). A group discount of $15 per ticket applies to groups of 10 or more.Tickets are available online at archibaldprizegippsland.com.au.

For more information visit archibaldprizegippsland.com.au or follow @gippsartgallery on Instagram or @gippslandartgallery on Facebook.

The Gippsland Art Gallery complies with COVID-19 safe regulations.