Three local artists make shortlist

Margaret Silverwood, one of three Whanganui artists who were shortlisted for the Parkin Drawing Award.

Three Whanganui artists have made the shortlist for a prestigious drawing prize.

Catherine Macdonald, Margaret Silverwood and Andrea du Chatenier have all made the 90-strong shortlist for the Parkin Drawing Award, out of more than 420 entries received.

The trio will have their work exhibited at the at the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts in Wellington, and may be chosen as the overall winner or one of 10 highly commended prizes.

It's the second time Ms Silverwood and Ms du Chatenier have been short-listed for the award.

The Parkin Drawing Award was launched in 2013 by arts patron and hotelier Chris Parkin, and aims to promote and celebrate drawing excellence within New Zealand. It is open to anyone who lives permanently in New Zealand or has citizenship.

This year's judges are Kiwi artist Dick Frizzell; arts commentator, historian and writer Warren Feeney; prolific New Zealand artist Judy Darragh; and renowned painter Kelcy Taratoa.

Ms Darragh said this year's entries included a wide range of styles, from traditional to experimental, and established artists to students.

"As selectors we looked at over 400 entries covering a wide range of materials and ideas questioning 'what is a drawing?' Drawing can generate ideas, problem solve, observe, document and create new worlds."

The winning submission will be selected and announced by Christchurch Art Gallery director, Jenny Harper, on August 2. The free public exhibition showcasing all finalists' works will run from August 2 to August 28.