Katoomba artist Samuel Quinteros has been named a finalist for the Doug Moran National Portrait Prize.
The 24-year-old was one of 30 artists shortlisted for the $150,000 prize, to be announced on Wednesday at Juniper Hall in Sydney.
In the past, Quinteros has described Katoomba as a great place to live and work for an artist.
“It has provided tranquility and a sense of freshness that is essential for concentration. Whenever I meet with people overseas through residencies and exhibitions, I like to show off the scenic beauty of the Blue Mountains and describe these great conditions. I'm lucky to be surrounded by interesting and creative people here in the Mountains,” he said.
To get ahead in life, it’s important to follow your passion, Quinteros said.
“If you have a passion you shouldn't ignore your inner conviction if there are naysayers. To get ahead it's vital to take the initiative and be well organised. See your own endeavour as a game in which it's always your turn,” he said. “I also think the internet will increasingly become a factor that makes it possible to do more whilst living outside of the big cities.”
Quinteros’ artistic talents were recognised in January when he was named 2017 Young Citizen of the Year at a ceremony in Springwood.
“Samuel Quinteros is inspirational young artist, and he offers an example of what it means to take risks and follow your true calling,” a Blue Mountains City Council spokeswoman said at the time.
“Moved to follow the vocation of becoming an artist, he is a great example to other young people. As a painter his artistic style is still evolving, but he is prolific and original as a painter.”
The Doug Moran shortlist includes portraits of recognisable identities such as Isla Fisher, Alex Perry, Jack Charles and Paul Capsis, with well-known artists such as Anh Do, Robert Hannaford, Prudence Flint and Tim Storrier joining emerging artists among the finalists.
