Renowned Indigenous artist Jenna Lee, known for her Saltwater art inspired by the Gulumerridjin (Larrakia), Wardaman, and KarraJarri cultures, has been awarded the prestigious Open Prize at the Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize. Jenna Lee Wins Open Prize at Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize
The Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize, organized by the South Australian Museum, celebrates the intersection of art and the natural world, recognizing artists whose works explore and interpret scientific themes.
Lee’s winning sculpture titled “Grass Tree – Growing Together Spins” is a profound reflection of resilience and renewal in Indigenous cultures. Inspired by the resilience of First Nations languages, the sculpture transforms the pages of an old Aboriginal word dictionary into a dynamic tribute to the native Grass Tree.
“Inspired by the endurance of traditional languages and the Grass Tree’s ability to thrive despite ecological challenges, my sculpture celebrates the enduring spirit of Indigenous culture,” Lee explains.
The announcement of Lee’s win took place at the South Australian Museum, coinciding with the grand opening of an exhibition showcasing the works of both winners and finalists. As the recipient of the Open Prize, Lee was awarded a cash prize of $30,000, sponsored by IAS Fine Art Logistics.
The panel of judges, comprising esteemed professionals in the fields of art, science, and Indigenous studies, commended Lee’s work for its profound connection to nature, culture, and art, as well as its critical exploration of colonial legacies.
Lee’s work, along with all finalists across Open Prize and Emerging categories, will be on display at the South Australian Museum until June 10. Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to vote for the $5,000 People’s Choice Prize sponsored by the K&S Langley Fund.
Minister for Arts, Andrea Michaels, extended her congratulations to both Jenna Lee and Emerging Prize winner Andrew Gall, emphasizing the importance of art in fostering dialogue about the natural world.
“I commend Jenna Lee and Andrew Gall for their exceptional contributions to this year’s Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize, reminding us of the power of art to engage with scientific themes and cultural narratives,” Minister Michaels stated.
The Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize serves as a biennial celebration of the natural world and the artists who find inspiration in it, inviting audiences to explore the diverse intersections of art, science, and culture at the South Australian Museum.
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