Since 1988, the Friends of Grafton Gallery have been the proud sponsors of the Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award, raising funds towards the first prize for each biennial award.
Learn more about the History of the Friends & the JADA here.
Over the years, JADA has become a living document of how drawing in Australia has evolved. It’s fascinating to see how artists push the boundaries of what drawing can be, reflecting changes in our society, technology, and artistic vision.
The Friends are proud to be the Major Sponsors
of the 2024 Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award.
The Friends of the Gallery, as the major sponsor of JADA, play a crucial role in supporting this event. Throughout the year, they organise various fundraising activities and events to support both JADA and the Grafton Regional Gallery. These events form part of an exciting program that contributes to the vibrant arts community in the region.
Through the JADA, the Grafton Regional Gallery and the Friends of the Gallery contribute significantly to the national conversation about art, supporting artists and providing the public with access to high-quality contemporary drawings.
The JADA represents more than just an acquisitive competition; it’s a celebration of creativity, a platform for artistic growth, and a testament to the enduring power and relevance of drawing in contemporary art. It continues to be an important event in Australia’s art calendar, bringing attention to the diversity and skill present in the country’s drawing practice.
So, whether you’re an artist, an art enthusiast, or someone just curious about the world of drawing, we invite you to be part of this exciting journey.
Come to the exhibition, attend an Event with Friends, and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of contemporary Australian drawing.
Celebrate the Official Opening with Friends
The Opening Gala will be held at Grafton Regional Gallery on Saturday the 28th of September. This opening event will offer visitors a comprehensive view of current trends and innovations in Australian drawing.
View the 2024 JADA Finalists online now.
Across the evening, two significant prizes will be awarded:
The 2024 Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award of $35,000
A non-acquisitive prize of $5,000 for an Early Career Artist
Hosted by Grafton Regional Gallery, with Mistress of Ceremonies; Nell Schofield; the Friends look forward to celebrating the 2024 Winners Announcement with the Gallery, the artists and the cultural community of the Clarence Valley and beyond!
For the artists involved, JADA is more than an award – it’s a launchpad that can propel careers to new heights.
Grafton Regional Gallery & the Friends of Grafton Gallery invite you to:
The 2024 JADA GALA
Saturday 28 September from 5.30pm
Music by astromaude
Drawing performance by Jan Rae
Proudly hosted on Bundjalung Country, 158 Fitzroy St, Grafton
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
Follow Grafton Regional Gallery for more information and ticket links.
Image Credits: Samantha Townsend, Melting Wax Photography, 2022 and 2024
