The Percivals 2020

Jonathan McBurnie: Hello. I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome Cr Ann-Maree Greaney to formally announce the winners of the 2020 Percival Portrait Prize.

Cr Ann-Maree Greaney: Good morning. I'd like to start by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of this land, the Wulgurukaba of Gurambilbarra and Yunbenun, and Bindal people. We pay respects to their cultures, their ancestors and their Elders, past and present, and all future generations.

Well, New South Wales may have the Archibalds, but here in North Queensland, we have The Percivals. It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to this year's event, North Queensland's very own portrait and photography prize.

The Percivals has been showcasing our region's best artistic talent from both established and emerging artists since its inception is 2007. Over the years, the competition has created quite a name for itself, receiving hundreds of entries from all over Australia and the world.

In fact, this year, we've had well over 300 entries over both categories. Unfortunately, this year's circumstances may be a little different than years gone by, but if you haven't already, can I please encourage you to check out this year's virtual exhibition – it's fantastic.

When you view these incredible works, you'll see why The Percivals have gained a reputation for hosting such high-quality artistry. It's thanks to North Queensland artists telling their stories that has molded our region into the arts and cultural Ekka it is today.

Every portrait tells a different story, whether it's the personal triumphs of everyday heroes, or a glimpse into what makes our idols tick. Along with these talented artists, I'd also like to thank our incredible judges for the amazing job they have done.

I'm sure you can appreciate the challenge faced deciding who to afford the $40,000 Painting and the $10,000 Photography Prize to. So, to all the artists, a heartfelt congratulations on your exceptional work. Good luck and I look forward to taking some time to enjoy very one of your works throughout the exhibition.

So, without further ado, drumroll please, the winner of the $40,000 Percival Portrait Painting Prize is Cutler Footway for his work Portrait of Jack Betteridge Costumed as an Elf: Don't F. with Me, Fellas! Congratulations, Cutler!

The winner of the $10,000 Percival Photographic Portrait Prize is Janet Taverner for her work Ben & Saki. Congratulations, Janet!

I'd also like to take this opportunity to a special mention Percival Animal Portrait Prize, Still by Elissa Sampson. Congratulations, Elissa!

To all the artists involved, thank you so much for making the 2020 Percivals exhibition such a wonderful and memorable event. Thank you.