History Made: All-Women Jury Awards Bennett Prize

The art world is buzzing after the announcement of the winner of the prestigious Bennett Prize, a landmark achievement marked not only by the significant award itself, but also by the groundbreaking composition of its judging panel: an all-women jury. For the first time in the prize's history, a panel of exclusively female judges deliberated to select the recipient of this substantial award, the largest given to women working in figurative painting.

By  William Harris  

The winner was revealed to widespread acclaim. brief description of winning artwork and style, e.g., a powerful series of portraits exploring themes of motherhood and resilience, a vibrant collection of still lifes celebrating the beauty of everyday objects, impressed the jury with its [mention key qualities, e.g., technical skill, emotional depth, innovative approach]. [Optional: Include a quote from the artist expressing their feelings about the win].
This year's selection process carried particular weight due to the all-female jury, a bold move aimed at addressing historical imbalances within the art world. The composition of the jury itself, comprised of [list jury members and their credentials/specialization if available], was chosen to bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the judging criteria. This shift towards inclusivity signaled a commitment to fostering a more equitable representation of women artists and their contributions to the field.
The Bennett Prize has long been a platform for recognizing exceptional talent among women figurative painters, but this year's announcement represents a significant step forward in promoting gender equity in the arts. The decision to convene an all-women jury is a testament to the growing awareness of the need for greater diversity and representation within art institutions and judging panels. It sparks a crucial conversation about the historical underrepresentation of women artists and the ongoing struggle for equal opportunity.