Noemi Martinez Romera Winner of Creative Connections Art Exhibition

Last Thursday Noemi Martinez Romera won Best in show at the 2024 Great Barrier Reef Festival
Art Exhibition.

Noemi created her piece in response to the exhibition theme: ‘Whitsunday Wonders: Above & Below the Surface.’

Her piece ‘Panorama’ by definition, is an ‘unbroken view of the whole region surrounding an observer’:

“In this painting, I explore a different view of the intricate nature within the Great Barrier Reef's ecosystem,” Noemi explained.

Through a blend of contrast, realism, and surrealism, Noemi invites viewers into a scene where corals, plants, and fauna join in a dreamlike assembly against a charcoal background.

Having trekked South Mole Island and appreciated the scenery, it occurred to Noemi that when it comes to the Great Barrier Reef, people “only think of the bigger picture.”

Noemi’s intention, therefore, was to present a close-up perspective that highlights the individual elements within the larger picture.

Noemi emphasised that she was grateful for the lovely feedback she received, including from judge Lauren Turton from Artspace Mackay who commented the below:

“I enjoyed the artist’s interesting homage to the still life genre, and discovering the hidden treasures within this work. I enjoyed the well-developed concept, thoughtful consideration of composition and technique.”

Noemi said she was shocked to have won the competition:
“I never did this piece with the aim of winning, I just wanted to do something beautiful, it was very instinctual.”
“I saw all the stunning work at the exhibition from so many different artists, with years of experience, with so many great techniques, and I felt overwhelmed.”
“I feel honoured.”
Many of the artist’s pieces have now been sold, and Noemi says that it was a “great” and “successful” night.
The prize was an acquisitive prize alongside a cash prize of a hefty $3000. Therefore, The Whitsunday Regional Council is now the proud owner of Noemi’s fantastic piece.
Noemi also helped design the Fairy Tree for the Immersed Art Installation at the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
Noemi doesn't have any plans to create another masterpiece at present but wants to keep exploring her art and thanks her family members and coworkers who supported her.
You can see a full list of the winners on page 27.

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Noemi Martinez Romera and Mayor Ry Collins with her winning piece: ‘Panorama’. Photo credit: Marewyn Wright

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