We received just over 200 entries for the Open section and according to our selection panel of judges the photographs were of a very high standard.

The entries were sent to our three judges independently and anonymously. The photographs were then scored for content, technical skill and aesthetic accomplishment. The top 75 photographs were selected from the combined judge’s rankings.

A few of the judges' comments -

“The theme of Water has encapsulated the photographer’s imaginations and for me the strongest works are images that are suggestive of the impact of water on the environment or on the physical needs of a population without necessary describing it in detail. The dramatic effects of darkness in black and white photography creates theatrical and fanciful imagery that layers the work with powerful narratives. The inclusion of shadowy figures and abstracted details creates an illusionary element that highlights the fragile yet overbearing presence of man and their intervention in the natural world. Water has become a highly politicized natural resource and the impending impact of climate change is never far removed from our minds. These photographers have celebrated the beauty of water in its most natural state but have also infused the watery world with new and concerning visions of our future reality."

"I have marked with the intention of highlighting the most powerful work that fits the theme.”

 “Overall I was very impressed with the technical standard of the images and I commend all the entrants on the quality of work. Given the topic there was a lot of similarities in the subject matter and for me it was the technical level and the overall aesthetic impact of the work that was the deciding factor. Under the technical heading I also considered composition as well as exposure and placement of black and white tones in the image.
The aesthetic category, for me, as well as being about the way the subject matter was conveyed through technique and composition was the emotional impact and overall power of the image to compel the viewer to look further, contemplate or return to the image a number of times.”

“Water is a challenging but exciting subject to photograph. The competition entries demonstrated a diverse and inventive approach to the subject with some beautifully composed images and moments of visual poetry. It was an excellent start to what will, I am sure, become an important award in the photographic calendar in New South Wales. My congratulations to all concerned.”

The Murrurundi Arts Council would like to thank judges Alasdair Forster, Miranda Lawry and Robyn Stacey for lending their time and considerable experience in selecting the shortlist for the Open Section.