The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

ART AND Absolut Vodka has enjoyed a happy marriage for decades and to develop a closer relationship with the local art community The Burns House Group has launched the Absolut Art Ambition competition, where local artists are challenged to create works of art inspired by the brand.

All artists professional and amateur over 18 have the opportunity to create a piece inspired by Absolut whether it is a painting, a sculpture or a photograph.

There will be a showcase of the top 30 pieces during the Absolut Art Ambition exhibition on October 16.

Absolut’s relationship with artists goes back to 1986, when Andy Warhol created the first of many commissioned artworks to be used in Absolut Vodka’s advertising campaigns, according to the Absolut Art Collection website. From 1986 to 2004, Absolut Vodka maintained and developed a tradition of working closely with artists around the world.

Jena Messam, Absolut brand manager, told Tribune Arts and Entertainment that the competition is Burns House’s way of building stronger relationships with artists and the community at large.

“Absolut has always been a brand that is synonymous with art, a brand that appreciates art, so we always try to do an event that in some way shapes the art community here,” she said. “Although we missed a year, we wanted to ensure that we do it this year so that our customers and fans still feel connected. We are calling for creativity and for artist to step out of the box and produce some Absolut inspired artwork.”

The submitted artwork will be judged based on elements of artistic expression including interpretation and the clarity of the theme to the viewer; creativity and originality of the depicted theme; quality of artistic composition and overall design based on the theme; the overall impression of the art; the effect of the artwork in general and as a whole and whether the artwork stands on its own as a complete and outstanding work.

The artwork will be judged by people’s choice and a panel of judges and the best in show will win the grand prize. The winner will receive $1,500 and an Absolut gift package.

“The winning piece will be showcased at Burns House,” Ms Messam said.

“I am planning to have my supplier for Absolut at the competition for one of the judges, so internationally the piece would be seen and would be recognised in the international office in Florida where our suppliers are located.

“We will keep the piece for about a year to use it in any upcoming Absolut art related events, otherwise the piece will be owned solely by the artist.

“We will not be participating in sale of the art piece at all. We will just use it to showcase the marriage between Absolut and artists.”

All artwork must be brought to The Burns House Group by October 14, although it is strongly advised to have pieces submitted by October 9. Artwork submitted after October 14 will not be considered.

Thirty artists will be shortlisted and contacted on October 15. Artists are only allowed to submit one piece for the competition.