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By Viscopy | 10 November 2009

News release issued 9 November 2009

Viscopy launches exhibition space and announces new annual prize for artists

Australasia's not-for-profit rights management organisation for the visual arts, Viscopy, is launching two new initiatives designed to help artists establish and develop their careers. Blackfriars off Broadway is Viscopy's exhibition space for artists located at Viscopy's new Sydney premises in Chippendale which will be opened by Virginia Judge MP, Minister Assisting the NSW Premier on the Arts.

At the opening event on 10 November, which will be attended by representatives from across the creative industries, the Minister will also be announcing the John Fries Memorial Prize, a new annual prize for artists worth $10,000 to the winner plus a solo exhibition in the gallery.

Blackfriars off Broadway opens with Cache which features work by 14 artists from every state and territory in Australia, all of whom are Viscopy members. Included are several famous names such as Tracey Moffatt and Janet Laurence as well as up and coming artists such as Kim Yong Hun and Eva Marosy-Weide. The opening event will feature a live blindfold piano performance by the legendary Domenico de Clario.

Joanna Cave, Viscopy's recently appointed chief executive, hopes that these initiatives, which are both firsts for the 12 year old organisation, will complement the licensing services Viscopy provides and that generate over $2 million per year for artists. She said:

"Most artists struggle to earn a living from their art and copyright royalties - even modest sums - can make a big difference. Blackfriars off Broadway is designed to showcase the quality, beauty and diversity of the visual art created by Viscopy members which we hope will also stimulate new licensing opportunities amongst the many customers using our services. The annual John Fries Memorial Prize will offer a substantial cash award and a solo exhibition at Blackfriars off Broadway to the winning artist."

The John Fries Memorial Prize will be open to all artists in Australia and New Zealand who have been practicing professionally for at least two years but have not yet secured recognition through a commercial gallery. Artists of all ages and disciplines, whether members of Viscopy or not, will be entitled to enter. Entries will open in April next year and the winner will be announced at an exhibition of finalists' work in October 2010.

The prize remembers John Fries, who died suddenly following an accident earlier this year. John served on the Viscopy board of directors for 5 years and made a remarkable contribution to the life and success of the organisation.