Shepparton Art Museum has announced the return of The Theodore Urbach Landscape Prize and Studio Scholarship for 2025, which aims to support artists in the state specialising in Australian landscape painting.
Applications open on Friday, November 8, with a $10,000 prize package for the winner, comprising $5000 in cash and a $5000 studio scholarship.
The scholarship grants the selected artist exclusive access to SAM’s studio for three months, from May 1 to July 31, 2025, providing a valuable opportunity to refine and elevate their artistic skills.
SAM artistic director Danny Lacy said The Urbach addresses financial and time challenges artists face, providing the support needed so they can focus on developing their practice.
“(The winner will have) access to professional development opportunities, the knowledge and experience of the SAM team, and the vibrant natural surrounds of Victoria Park Lake and the Goulburn River on the museum’s doorstep,” he said.
Two runners-up will each receive a $2500 award, honouring their dedication and commitment to developing their applications.
In 2024, The Urbach recipient, Echuca-based artist Ellen Lee, embraced the scholarship to perfect her abstract visual style, finding rich inspiration in the serene wetlands and diverse birdlife of Victoria Lake.
Ms Lee and SAM curator of community Caroline Esbenshade will host a Sam Talks event on Thursday, November 7, for artists interested in applying for the program in 2025.
This event will provide a chance to engage with the previous winner and learn about her award-winning experience.
The Urbach is made possible through the vision of the Theodore Urbach Landscape Painting Scholarship and Prize Charitable Trust, founded per the wishes of the late philanthropist and arts patron Theodore Urbach.
The trust was designed to provide prizes and scholarship opportunities to benefit artists and students working in the field of Australian landscape painting.
With the application window closing on March 3, 2025, eligible artists are encouraged to mark their calendars and prepare their submissions.
For complete details on eligibility, how to apply, and program guidelines, visit sheppartonartmuseum.com.au/support-get-involved/the-urbach/
SAM Talks: The Urbach Prize and Scholarship with artist Ellen Lee is on Thursday, November 7, at 6pm at the Shepparton Art Museum, 530 Wyndham St, Shepparton.
To register for the event, visit events.humanitix.com/sam-talks-ellen-lee-residency-2024
A recording of this talk will be available online after the event.
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