Spirit of Bengali, Grampians

Single image shortlisted and exhibited at Monash Gallery of Art. The image is part of a broad series of works that explores the icons and myths and have helped shape Australian identity. Featuring a combination of locations, personalities and 'larrikin' humour, the series wryly considers ways in which foreign locations encapsulate the idea of Australia, while concurrently responding to the evolving assimilation of imported cultural icons and their relationship to contemporary Australia. The images present a collective national identity through distinct and now popular iconography that illustrates a fascination with connections between place, history and culture. Spirit of Bengali is included in the series due to its iconic positioning within the Australian bush, and the clear contradiction this presents. The inclusion of this image in the Bowness prize indicates originality of artwork and achievement at a national level - this prize is one of the most prestigious national photography prizes in Australia.