The 2008 Charles Ware Award for Young Artists was won by Jet James for ‘Tides of Change’
'Jet James is a promising young artist whose winning print has a distinctive style, commanding scale and attractive surface treatment. Jet’s commitment to his work and attention to the craftsmanship of printmaking is evident and he obviously has a bright future in the art world'
Mr Glenn Cooke,
Research Curator,
Queensland Heritage at the Queensland Art Gallery
The Rockhampton Art Gallery biennial Ergon Energy Central Queensland Art Awards has become a significant event for Australian artists since 2002, offering opportunities for recognition and purchase in a prestigious competition. The winning works become part of the Rockhampton Art Gallery collection and additional purchases may be made by local sponsors, collectors and the Rockhampton Art Gallery from the finalists’ exhibition. At the opening of the exhibition Jet's artwork also caught the eye of Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor, Brad Carter, and a special unveiling will be made at the Mayors office in the month of Febuary 2009.
The Charles Ware Award for Young Artists is an acquisitive award of $5,000 (perpetually for a work on paper) for artists between 18-26 years.