The Gallery Mt Macedon 2025 Art Prize
A Fabrication of Nan, by Alexandra Cairney
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Celebrating local talent: The Gallery Mt Macedon 2025 Art Prize
The Gallery Mt Macedon has once again shone a spotlight on the incredible creativity of our region through its annual Art Prize, proudly sponsored by Community Bank Gisborne & District.
This year, congratulations go to local artist Alexandra Cairney, winner of the 2025 Art Prize for her moving work, A Fabrication of Nan.
A powerful, personal portrait
Crafted from yarn, Alexandra’s artwork pays tribute to her grandmother, a skilled dressmaker and knitter, weaving together themes of grief, memory, and legacy. At just 23, Alexandra’s career is already remarkable—graduating with Honours in Fine Art from RMIT, completing artist residencies, and preparing to take her practice international with an upcoming residency in France.
A showcase of regional creativity
Now in its fourth year, the Gallery Mt Macedon Art Prize welcomes entries from across the Macedon Ranges and Sunbury, inviting artists to submit works in any 2D medium—from watercolour, acrylic, and oil to photography, printmaking, and tapestry.
The 2025 prize drew 31 entries, impressing judges Shay Downer and Jo Reitze with the diversity of techniques, media, and creative approaches.
Judges comments
“I was drawn to this work which showcases creativity and originality. It stood out overall compared to the other entries. I love the idea of knitting a canvas to create an artwork on and the way it was presented. Inventive and evocative. I am curious to know more about the work and the story behind it. ”
“When I first entered the gallery, the winning work immediately attracted my attention. The textile face stares at the viewer. It is beautifully drawn and constructed with layers of long stitches in a range of monochromatic tones that have been creatively embroidered on a crocheted background”
About The Gallery Mt Macedon
The Gallery is a cooperative of around 26 local artists, dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the vibrant arts community of the Macedon Ranges and Sunbury. The annual Art Prize not only highlights emerging and established talent but also strengthens the connection between art, people, and place.
