SYDNEY.- A disagreement during final deliberations over The Blake Prize shortlist has resulted in the resignation of art historian and judge Christopher Allen from the panel. At the centre of the debate was a work entered by controversial artist Adam Cullen, whose depiction of the crucifixion saw the judges divided over its inclusion. Dr Allen opposed the acceptance of the work in The Blake Prize shortlist (and exhibition) but was over-ruled by the other two judges, artist and former Blake Prize winner Lachlan Warner and religious scholar Kathleen McPhillips.

Chairman of The Blake Prize Rod Pattenden said, “We respect Dr Allan’s strength of feeling about Adam Cullen’s work, which is based in a deep appreciation of beauty in art. The Blake Prize however, embraces diversity in its entries and it is important to us that we remain open to the many styles through which artists engage with the subject area. The other two judges believe that the work submitted for The Blake Prize shows an engagement with the history and complex symbolism of the crucifixion and on the basis of their assessment we will include the work amongst the finalists.”

Works of art require the support of two out of three be included as a finalist for The Blake Prize. Where there are strong opposing positions, the judges must argue their perspective. In this instance, the judges were unable to agree unanimously. The Blake Society decided to include the work and accept Dr Allen’s resignation because of the majority vote in its favour.

Adam Cullen’s work is titled “Corpus Christi (Women Only Bleed)” and is acrylic and enamel on canvas.

The Blake Prize finalists will be announced in full on Monday 11 August. The Blake Prize award winner (along with the winner of the John Coburn Award for Emerging Professional Artists and the inaugural Blake Poetry Prize) will be announced on Thursday 4 September.

Each year, the judging panel for The Blake Prize includes an Art Historian, a practicing artist and a theological scholar. These three fields of expertise offer the process a set of unique insights from art history, religious history and artistic practice. As artists increasingly mine the traditions of various religious traditions, it becomes more and more important to have members of the judging panel that understand the reference points of the artists. And as submitted works evolve through the use of new media it is vital to have an experienced artist familiar with various genres of artistic practice. The judging process is mediated by Board Chairman, Rev Rod Pattenden and General Manager, Stefanie Lewis.

In 2008 the judges invited were:
Christopher Allen – art historian and critic (not participating in final selection process)
Kathleen McPhillips – religious scholar
Lachlan Warner – practicing artist and lecturer

The Blake Prize exists to encourage the expression of religious or spiritual impulse through art, through a wide range of approaches, and it embraces the diversity this attracts. This is not a simple theme for an Art Award. Both art and spirituality are evolving as elements of contemporary life, and both represent a site of reflection and critique of the world at large. The Blake Society welcomes the many perspectives of entrants (and viewers), encourages people to reflect on the notion of ‘faith’ as it relates to today, and stimulates debate and discussion.

Artists selected as finalists for the Blake Prize are those whose works are deemed the strongest and most articulate in their expression. They examine the traditions of faith that make up the cultural landscape. They explore the nuances of religious ritual both public and private. And they map out the passions, beliefs, ironies and even causes for protest, of spirituality and religion today. The Blake encourages curiosity, critical reflection and an examination of the old and new, to arrive at works of art that are relevant to both the individual and the world at large. Neither truly sacred nor secular, The Blake Prize offers artists and opportunity to investigate the nature of faith and the ways in which contemporary artistic practice can respond to this.

The complete shortlist of The Blake Prize will be announced on Monday 11 August. All short-listed artists will be represented in The Blake Prize Exhibition, on show at the National Art School Gallery from Friday 5 Sept until Sat 6 Oct.