Winners Announced

Australian Design Centre is delighted to announce the winners of the inaugural MAKE Award: Biennial Prize for Innovation in Australian Craft and Design. The winner was unveiled as Melbourne designer Vipoo Srivilasa. Second prize went to Adelaide designer Jessica Murtagh. Judges also awarded a Highly Commended accolade to Sydney designer Liz Williamson. The announcement was made at the exhibition opening last night in Sydney.

The judges were deeply impressed with the craft and design excellence and innovation in the works. Lisa Cahill, CEO and Artistic Director, Australian Design Centre, said: ‘Vipoo Srivilasa is a serious artist who has truly developed over the recent years. His piece is complete in its the composition and stands out beyond all other works in the competition for innovation, creativity and the progression of his individual practice.’

Cahill added: ‘Following in the long lineage of artists such as Grayson Perry, Sin Ying Ho and more, Jessica Murtagh is using the ancient classical vessel to reflect on her observation of a fast changing society. This glass piece is unique in technique and concept. Liz Williamson is a much respected figure in the Australian craft scene. Overall, the work appears simple and effectively composed. With long observation one can see the artist’s intended details, making it a remarkable piece.’

The MAKE Award is a new national award celebrating innovation in contemporary craft and design. The winner of the MAKE Award will receive a cash prize of $35,000 with a second prize of $10,000, making it the richest non-acquisitive prize for craft and design in Australia.

A total of 187 entries from most states and territories were received from designers makers working across the fields of ceramics, glass, furniture, metal, jewellery, textiles and fibre. The judges pre-selected 30 finalists, whose works will go on display as part of a new exhibition opening today at Australian Design Centre

The judges included Lisa Cahill, CEO and Artistic Director, Australian Design Centre; Hyeyoung CHO, Chairperson, The Korea Association of Art and Design and Jury Member Loewe Craft Prize; Brian Parkes, CEO, JamFactory; Jason Smith, Director, Geelong Gallery.

The MAKE Award is unique in Australia but is inspired by international award programs such as the Burke Prize, offered by the Museum of Arts and Design in New York, and the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize.

The MAKE Award is an initiative of Australian Design Centre. “Australia has a wealth of creative talent and this new award aims to give an elevated platform to that talent, shining a spotlight on the energy and innovation in craft and design practice,” explains Cahill.

“There is no other award like it in Australia. There are discipline specific prizes but no major award that recognises creative practice across craft and design broadly. Designer makers are innovative, highly skilled, and very knowledgeable about material use. They are curious problem solvers who strive to creative beautiful objects that are functional, conceptual, and reflective of our times. They deserve to be recognised.”