An inspirational evening at Private Viewing of Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes 2022

After three years of not being able to host this event, we’re thrilled that our Foundation Members, Circle Members, Grandparents Club Members, and College Art and Design & Technology staff had the opportunity to join us at our Private Viewing of the 2022 Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prize exhibition on Sunday 19 June.

Hearing from Claus Stangl, winner of the 2022 Archibald Packing Room Prize in conversation with Art Gallery of NSW Director, Dr Michael Brand was an absolute honour, and it was wonderful to have Head of Primary, Lynda Fisher, speak about Moriah’s new ThinkSpace, developing our children’s coding, technology and design skills.

“We are so grateful to once again have had the opportunity to enjoy all the art and culture this incredible country of Australia and the city of Sydney has to offer. The last two years has shown us how fortunate we are to live in Australia, and how lucky we are to be part of the Moriah family.”
Opening words from Foundation President, Judy Lowy

Claus Stangl in conversation with Dr Michael Brand

In conversation with Claus Stangl, the winning artist of the Archibald Packing Room prize, Michael asked Claus to describe the impact of having his work displayed in front of a large audience over an extended period of time. Claus responded that “It’s every artist’s dream…This is Australia’s most talked about show. It’s awe-inspiring and feels like a blessing.”

Michael asked Claus about his meeting with his subject, Taika Waititi, and how he developed the concept for the portrait. Claus shared that after a lot of ‘head scratching’, he devised a 17-page proposal, and Taika chose to proceed with the 3D concept. Working from photographs, Claus used acrylics, shading and blending the paints over many layers to create the portrait which took more than 200 hours to complete.

In exploring Claus’s background, and the fact that he didn’t go to art school, Claus said, “I definitely feel like an outsider and it’s been really nice to meet so many artists who have been so warm and welcoming… I believe if you are driven, you can really train yourself.” Claus spoke about creativity being possible in many aspects of life including how you dress, cook, present yourself and write. “There is no wrong answer. Just do it.”

In congratulating Claus Judy said, “It’s so refreshing to see someone with such intelligence, creativity and humility and we wish you every success and look forward to following your career.”

Leading the way in innovation with Lynda Fisher

Head of Primary, Lynda Fisher, shared how Moriah’s educational offerings are aligning with the fast-changing world so our children are future ready. She spoke about how our students receive direct explicit education in core skills and world knowledge alongside education in foundational digital and technology concepts. This solid foundation primes the canvass for the new digital arts in the best possible way.

Lynda also shared how Moriah students learn to leverage digital to present their best story just like artists leverage the visual arts to tell their best story.

In closing

In thanking our guests Judy said, “Together we are stronger, and the more involved we are, the more we can achieve for our children. Thank you to each and every one of you for your commitment to Moriah and to The Foundation. Your support, whatever form it takes, really matters.”