Our collaboration, an assemblage of found and painted objects, reflects the intersection of our shared values: a deep commitment to recycling, repurposing, and an enduring love for materials. The work is a tangible expression of our personalities and our connection to the Newcastle landscape, particularly the beaches that have shaped our experience and identity as artists.

Drawing inspiration from the natural beauty and history of Newcastle, we’ve created a piece that speaks to the theme of this year’s prize—interpreting and celebrating the Hunter region. The objects we’ve chosen carry the essence of our local environment, echoing the textures, colours, and stories of the area. Through this assemblage, we aim to honour Newcastle’s rich legacy while also contributing a contemporary perspective that bridges our personal experiences with a broader narrative about place, memory, and materiality.

Lyndal Campbell and Kara Wood are Newcastle-based artists with a shared passion for exploring the possibilities of found materials. Both artists have long been inspired by the coastal environment of Newcastle, which is reflected in this collaborative artwork. Lyndal brings a background of painting and the use of recycled resources, while Kara’s expertise lies in ceramics and assemblage. Together, they have created a work that is not only visually engaging but also rich in meaning and deeply connected to their home in the Hunter region.