Published on Wednesday, 22 July 2026 at 2:52:08 PM
Artist Opportunities
What makes an artwork stand above the rest? Watch the video to hear directly from the judges as they explain why Sculpture without Wazza was selected as the standout work of the 2026 Gascoyne Art Awards.
The judges behind the 2026 Gascoyne Art Awards share their thoughts on Markham Boston's Sculpture without Wazza - the artwork awarded Best Overall.
Bringing together three respected voices from across Western Australia's contemporary arts sector, the judging panel included Mark Tweedie, Maxxi Minaxi May and Sarah Roots. Together, they spent six hours alone in this year’s exhibition, considering creativity, technical skill, originality and artistic impact before choosing the category winners and the Best Overall work that would join the Shire of Carnarvon Community Art Collection.
In this special video, the judges reflect on what drew them to Sculpture without Wazza, offering a fascinating glimpse into the decision-making process and the qualities that made the work rise above an exceptional field of entries.
For artist Markham Boston, the award represents the culmination of decades of dedication.
"God loves a trier! I've been entering the Gascoyne Art Awards since Wally Dale was Shire President."
Established in 1984, the Gascoyne Art Awards have been celebrating regional creativity for more than 40 years. While Markham has previously won category awards, 2026 marks the first time he has received the exhibition's highest honour.
The winning artwork was created on reclaimed packing board with Markham trying this new technique, and he confirmed the paint is Ultramarine Blue. The talented and unique technique captured the judges' attention.
As the Best Overall Award is acquisitive, Sculpture without Wazza now becomes part of the Shire of Carnarvon Community Art Collection, ensuring the work will be preserved and exhibited as part of the region's artistic legacy for years to come.
The judges featured in this video each bring a wealth of experience to the panel. Visual artist Mark Tweedie is known for his evocative paintings exploring memory and place. Contemporary artist Maxxi Minaxi May works across weaving, sculpture, collage and installation with a strong focus on sustainability and material experimentation. Pilbara-based curator Sarah Roots, Lead Curator of the Regional Arts Triennial WA, offers a regional perspective grounded in contemporary artistic practice and storytelling.
Next up for Markham? He is working with Gascoyne Water to give Carnarvon's iconic Big Banana a well-deserved artistic refresh.
You can hear from Markham more at the People’s Choice Closing Awards on Saturday 29 August, 10am – where Gascoyne Arts Society are funding the People’s Choice winner. And artists will be present to speak to their works.
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