Underway for the third time, the biennial CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes Aboriginal art prize has just been launched for 2023.

Appropriately opening in the lead up to NAIDOC Week, July 2nd to July 9th, there is a prize pool of $4000 up for grabs.

In 2021, Condobolin artist Robert Sloane took out the top honours with his artwork "Mirri" (dragonfly). Mr Sloane's unique painting featuring traditional techniques of cross hatching and hand stencils in the contemporary depiction.

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes CEO, AnneMarie Mioche, who was one of three judges in the last event said all judges were very impressed with the calibre and variety of paintings entered and that Mr Sloane's detailed painting was a worthy winner.

Ms Mioche encouraged Aboriginal artists living in the Diocese of Wilcannia-Forbes, or in communities where its services are available, to enter this year's competition.

“At CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes we are passionate about creating opportunities for Aboriginal people and empowering all to succeed and this competition will generate opportunities and recognition for three aspiring artists,” Ms Mioche said.

“We know there is a lot of unrecognised talent in this region and we hope this competition will showcase these artists. This is the third time we have run the competition and this year we hope to attract even more talent from our communities.”

Artists from communities where CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes offers services, include Cobar, Bourke, Brewarrina, Nyngan, Warren, Narromine, Lake Cargelligo, and Condobolin are encouraged to enter.

The competition encourages emerging Aboriginal artists to create and share meaningful artwork that shows the rich Aboriginal culture and artistry. If the prestige of winning isn't encouragement enough to start painting, first prize for the winner is $2000, second prize is $1500 and third prize is $500.

Western Plains has had its fair share of winners. Besides Mr Sloane's winning work in the last competition, Jason Hudson from Narromine won equal second place with his painting "Working Together, Connecting Country". An encouragement award was given to Acacia Carter from Nyngan for her detailed and intricate portrait.

Ms Mioche said of the last event, "we know there is so much talent in this area and it is really wonderful to see the work and celebrate the artists."

No doubt this year's competition will bring a new flush of talent and here’s hoping the Western Plains artists can continue on from past successes.

Paintings can be contemporary or traditional and on any subject. Entries close on August 28th.