Gillean Shaw – Judge for the 2025 Port Stephens Art Prize
Gillean Shaw will judge the Painting, Mixed Media, Port Stephens Council Residents, and Miniatures categories in the 2025 Port Stephens Art Prize. As the Art Curator for the University of Newcastle Galleries, Gillean manages the Watt Space Gallery, a striking exhibition space housed in a renovated civic building. With a background as a lecturer in art theory and photomedia, she brings extensive expertise in curation and programming to her role.
Gillean’s Master of Fine Arts (MFA) research focused on the presentation and interpretation of material culture. She believes in the power of cultural spaces to foster multi-disciplinary communication and collaborative projects, making her uniquely suited to evaluate a broad spectrum of artistic works with an insightful and critical eye.
Anne Kempton – Our Earth and Fibre Judge for the 2025 Port Stephens Art Prize
Anne Kempton transitioned from a distinguished career in government to follow her passion for textiles, establishing the renowned Timeless Textiles gallery in Newcastle. This gallery has become a hub for both national and international art communities, fostering creative exchanges and collaborations around the world. Through its gallery space, shop, and comprehensive workshop programs, Timeless Textiles supports the growth and development of artists and artisans while promoting the value and collectability of fibre art.
Anne is committed to nurturing the arts and continues to pursue her own creative journey, producing beautiful and inspiring textile artworks. Her extensive experience, dedication to fostering creativity, and hands-on artistry make her a valuable judge for the 2025 Port Stephens Art Prize.
Roger Skinner – Photography Judge for the 2025 Port Stephens Art Prize
Roger Skinner is an acclaimed photographer whose award-winning work is held in public and private collections across Australia and internationally. Based in Muswellbrook, Roger oversees the Mullins Conceptual Photography Prize and leads the Contemporary Group of the Australian Photographic Society. His career includes numerous exhibitions and features in various art and news publications, showcasing both commissioned and non-commissioned works.
An active contributor to the photography community, Roger is the Secretary of the Muswellbrook and District Camera Club and regularly teaches different aspects of photography. His commitment to a contemporary approach to the art form, along with his extensive experience in curating and conceptual work, positions him as an esteemed judge for the competition.
