Local artist, Ms Carol Clue has won the 2016 Briant Mahoney Art Award as part of the biennial Gawler Art Awards hosted by the Gawler Community Gallery.
The $500 acquisition award, sponsored by Member for Light, Tony Piccolo, is for a work of art that captures the essence or character of Gawler or portrays a historical aspect of the town. Ms Clue won the award for her multi-media artwork titled Gawler Pride which, according to the judging panel, depicted a wonderful series of icons unique to Gawler. The Award was formally presented on behalf of Briant’s family by Mrs Evelyn Hall at the exhibition launch event yesterday (Sunday).
Mr Piccolo said the Award is named after the late Briant Mahoney, who was affectionately known in the town as the “man with the dog”.
“Briant’s family say he was a complex person, shy but at the same time drew people towards him,” said Mr Piccolo. “An avid Power supporter, Briant is remembered as a good natured person who just preferred to live by himself.”One of six children, Briant attended the local SaMaritan school in his early days and his family still recall him racing down the main street of Gawler in a horse and buggy.
Briant who passed away in 2010 aged 68, spent most of his working life in labouring and gardening jobs.Mr Piccolo said Briant was one of those characters that added ‘heart and soul’ to the community so I was very pleased when his family gave their permission to name this art award after him.
A plaque in memory of his life has been placed on the bench in Baker’s Park where Briant found refuge and spent much of his time in his later years. The Eighth Gawler Art Award Exhibition runs until Sunday 21st September at the Gallery, which is open Thursday to Saturday 10 am to 4pm and on Sunday 9 am till 3pm.
Entirely run by volunteers, more information about the gallery can be found at http://gawlergallery.blogspot.com.au/