A work meticulously composed on one-millimetre square graph paper with fine-tipped marker pen has earned Dunedin based artist Martin Thompson the 2010 Walker & Hall Waiheke Art Award.

A work meticulously composed on one-millimetre square graph paper with fine-tipped marker pen has earned Dunedin based artist Martin Thompson the 2010 Walker & Hall Waiheke Art Award.

In announcing the winner during the award ceremony at Waiheke Island Community Art Gallery this Labour weekend, guest judge and leading New Zealand artist, Sara Hughes, described the untitled ink on paper as “remarkable in its precision”.

“It is also outstanding for the way it references and brings to light the microcosms and mathematical intricacies of the world we inhabit”.

Now in its sixth year, the prestigious annual national art award attracted over 90 entries. The task of whittling these down to the 27 on display at the opening function was a difficult one, said Hughes. Those she selected cover a wide range of genres and methodology - but what they have in common is an element of surprise, intrigue and a multiplicity of ideas.

“They are works that make me look and think - and all those chosen as finalists do this in a variety of ways.”

All finalists have entered new work not exhibited before and the result is a showcase of work being produced right across the country with fresh and exciting developments from both new and established artists. Runner up and winner of the Zinni Douglas Merit Award was Jessica Peerless with the “Zeta Diptych” – a work Hughes described as striking for being perhaps the “boldest” in the room.

“It examines geometric and formal issues yet, taking a longer look, the pair of paintings display layers of investigation between and within form and colour.”

For the first time in the award’s history, neither winner was present at the ceremony to receive prize money totalling $5000 from Walker & Hall sponsor Joseph Tattersfield. The Zinni Douglas Merit Award of $1000 was also awarded. The works will be on display at the Waiheke Community Art Gallery until November 15.