Napier Waller Art Prize “People’s Choice” Award winner named

The Australian War Memorial today congratulated shortlisted artist Ian Cook, who has taken out the 2018 inaugural Napier Waller Art Prize People’s Choice Award for his digital artwork, Mates, for life.

Awarded $5000 cash, Cook’s Mates, for life is an emotive line drawing created for his mates that tells of the effect of service on the individual. Cook plans to donate the $5000 to support services that provide care to servicemen and women and their families who are suffering as a result of their service.

Memorial Director, Dr Brendan Nelson, also congratulated Cook on his win and acknowledged the personal sacrifice represented in Cook’s work, as in each entry into the Prize.

“The success of the Napier Waller Art Prize “People’s Choice” Award has shown just how encouraging and receptive the Australian public has been to highlighting artistic excellence, the healing potential of art, and the impact of military service on the individual.”

The Australian War Memorial’s Napier Waller Art Prize, presented in partnership with Thales Australia, the University of Canberra, and The Road Home received over 3000 unique votes for the People’s Choice Award.