Scholarship to Rome

SUTHERLAND artist Kevin McKay will be off to Rome next year because of the William Fletcher Travelling Fellowship.

McKay, known for his urban landscapes, was announced the winner at an award exhibition at the National Art School earlier in the month.

The $25,000 inaugural prize covers all the expenses for a three-month residency at the British School at Rome (BSR), and an end-of-term exhibition.  McKay was one of three finalists invited to submit works for the final judging.

He anticipates making paintings that contrast ancient architecture with the modern city, visiting art galleries and rubbing shoulders with artists and academics at the BSR.

“I am excited at the prospect of exploring the timeless city that first used concrete for urban development and made infrastructure a symbol of empire,” McKay said.

“With a young family this fellowship provides an incredible opportunity I could never afford.”

McKay is concluding his masters degree and teaches at Sutherland Community College.

The trip is scheduled for April to June 2011.

ST GEORGE & SUTHERLAND SHIRE LEADER, Thursday 23 September, 2010