Disability-inspired work takes $25K national prize

Sunshine Coast artist Amanda Bennetts is the deserving recipient of the $25,000 Girra: Fraser Coast National Art Prize, awarded for her stirring video artwork, Carve Crevice from Grace — a powerful and artistic reflection on disability and resilience.

Art that speaks volumes

In this 11-minute video performance, Amanda chisels away at a sandstone block with steady, rhythmic precision. The act of sculpting becomes both metaphor and meditation — highlighting endurance, perseverance, and the interplay between body, labour, and landscape.

Councilor Michelle Govers framed it beautifully:

“In the film, Amanda methodically chisels and breaks apart a large sandstone block, echoing the erosion of both body and landscape under extractive systems. It’s powerful and moving.” 

Disability and creativity intertwined

Amanda drew on her own life lived with multiple sclerosis and a rare muscular disease. Her performance weaves strength with vulnerability, creating art that resonates on multiple emotional levels.

Co-judge Michelle Newton described it as:

“A ritualised, Sisyphean endeavour — breaking up sandstone in a task that resists logic or resolution… it becomes a poetic encounter, where the inexplicability of her actions adds a layer of unexpected humour and poignancy.” 

Celebrating inclusive art nationwide

More than 250 artworks were submitted for this year’s biennial Girra Prize. Amanda’s win not only spotlights her exceptional creativity but also elevates disability-led art on a national platform.

The winning piece, originally commissioned by Accessible Arts and the Sydney Opera House, now joins the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery’s permanent collection.

Here’s where you can experience it in person:

• On display from: 23 August to 16 November 2025
  
• Location: Hervey Bay Regional Gallery
  
• Open: Tuesday–Friday, 10 am–4 pm; Weekends, 10 am–2 pm
  
• Entry: Free! 

Find out more at Fraser Coast Regional Council.