Selections for this year’s award were debuted at the gallery on Friday night, with the artists among those in attendance. For Trent Sayers, who is the chief executive of sponsor RACT Insurance, the quality and quantity the works continued to increase.

“It’s been really successful for us throughout the 11 years we have been involved,” he said.

“In the last four years, we have seen the digital medium used a lot more.

“We think it is important to engage with the curator to make sure the young artists can express themselves the way they see fit.”

A total of 35 artists are being displayed at the gallery, including entrants from Northern Tasmania.

Launceston’s Joel Parkinson was awarded a Special Commendation for his self portrait, Elude. 

The 17-year-old said it was exciting to be recognised for a piece which was borne out of a difficult time.

“I decided to a reflection of myself and the things I have overcome in my life,” he said.

“It represents a milestone for me.”

The exhibition runs from November 2-24.