Maitland Regional Art Gallery (MRAG) has named Sandy Sanderson as the winner of the 2025 Brenda Clouten Memorial Art Scholarship, with Liss Finney recognised as runner-up.
Now in its 20th year, the scholarship was established by Vicki and Bruce Woods in memory of their friend Brenda Clouten, and continues to play a pivotal role in supporting emerging artistic talent across the Hunter region.
Selected from a highly competitive field, this year’s 11 finalists are currently featured in the Brenda Clouten Memorial Art Scholarship Exhibition at MRAG.
Gallery Director Gerry Bobsien said the scholarship has helped shape the careers of many young artists over the past two decades.
“Beyond financial support, it offers exposure and professional development opportunities that can significantly influence an artist’s future,” Gerry said. “The exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary art, showcasing a new generation of talent exploring bold and thought-provoking themes.”
Sandy Sanderson’s winning work, Communia Omnia, brings together art, science, technology, philosophy and ritual through a layered installation that contrasts natural materials with video, light and synthetic elements.
In addition to the main prize, Friends of MRAG purchased Prettier When You Smile by finalist Indeah Clark for the gallery’s collection. Indeah, an artist of Biripi, Worimi and Wonnarua descent, draws inspiration from pop culture and social commentary.
The exhibition features works by all 11 finalists:
- Sandy Sanderson (winner)
- Liss Finney (runner-up)
- Indeah Clark
- Aidan Gageler
- Alessia Sakoff
- Claire Paul
- Brigitte Beyer
- Genevieve Graham
- James Rhodes
- Lexie Worboys
- Nikola Jokanovic
The Brenda Clouten Memorial Art Scholarship Exhibition is open to the public until 15 June 2025 at Maitland Regional Art Gallery.
IMAGE | Brenda Clouten co-judge artist Katy B Plummer (left) with winner winner Sandy Sanderson (middle) and runner up Liss Finney
