18 July 2015

Natasha Bieniek – 2015 Wynne Prize Winner

Congratulations to Natasha Bieniek who has been named as the winner of the 2015 Wynne Prize for landscape painting with her miniature oil painting, Biophilia 2015.

Of the work Bieniek has stated “I’m particularly interested in the impact of nature within an urban environment. My miniature oil painting, Biophilia, is part of a recent series that explores the way humans relate to the natural world. Biophilia literally means ‘love of life’ and references a scientific study that suggests our tendency to affiliate with nature is inherent and integral to our psychological and physical development. The inner-city landscape depicted in my painting illustrates a sense of tranquility that contrasts with its active surroundings. My intention is to draw focus on such diverse pockets of nature, and present the idea that we, as humans, are not above nature but very much a part of it.”

Artworks from the finalists of the Wynne, Archibald and Sulman Prizes will remain on display at the Art Gallery of New South Wales until 27 September 2015.

To view the Wynne Prize finalists, please click here.

Image credit: Natasha Bieniek, Biophilia, 2015, oil on dibond, 9.0 x 9.0 cm