A total of 74 finalists have been chosen from 600 entries for Australia’s only non-acquisitive national Still Life Painting Award, now based at the Project Contemporary Art Space in Wollongong.

Finalists for EMSLA 2018 include notable works from Marie Mansfield, Christopher McVinish, Anne-Marie Zanetti, Matthew Quick, Louise Anders, Nicolette Eisdell, Chelsea Gustafsson, Mirra Whale, and Arthur Apanski.

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The winner of the $20,000 prize will be announced at the opening of the exhibition on Friday at 6pm, with works to remain on display until December 1.

The free event will also include performances by Mendoza Tango Quartet and soprano Kate Wilmot.

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Meantime, art critic John McDonald will be hosting a talk at the gallery on Saturday from 10am.

“John will unpack issues involving the Australian art scene with his unflagging ability to tell the uncomfortable truths about trends and attitudes in the creative world,” said EMSLA curator, Dr Leigh Summers.

For more information visit: www.emsla.com.au