The inaugural BIFB Prompted Peculiar Prize, one of Australia's only AI awards has been won by Annika Nordenskiöld
In an exciting turn of events, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale has announced the winner of its first-ever Prompted Peculiar – International AI Prize. Among the pool of global submissions that flooded in from places as diverse as Sweden, Czechia, Israel, Germany, and Australia, Swedish artist Annika Nordenskiöld emerged victorious.
Nordenskiöld’s triumph was celebrated for her creation, “Twin Sisters in Love,” a piece that skillfully blurs the lines between reality and imagination. Judges were particularly impressed by how she managed to craft an image that appears real while toying with the viewer’s perception of reality.
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The captivating subject of the artwork, portraying two sisters tenderly cuddling an octopus, delves into art history and culture while cleverly subverting the genre of documentary photography.
Currently residing and working in Sweden, Annika Nordenskiöld boasts a background in communication from Berghs School of Communication and a degree from Konstfact – University College of Arts, Crafts and Design. Her artistic repertoire spans paintings, sculptures, and works of art in various materials.
Explaining her submission, Nordenskiöld shed light on the surreal nature of her creations, stating, “None of the places, people, or creatures in my prompts exist in the physical realm. It is the dream of a dreamer to bring home some proof of the journey; to become an oneironaut, a person who dreams worlds – a lucid dreamer, collecting notes and images, even objects, from the world within.”
The shortlisted exhibition of 20 works submitted for the Prompted Peculiar – AI Prize is currently on public display as part of the Ballarat International Foto Biennale.
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The entries showcased an infectious enthusiasm for AI-generated image-making, predominantly focusing on the photographic medium. These shortlisted works demonstrate a diverse range of creative approaches. The standout pieces showcase the artists’ ability to push beyond the initial prompt or ‘first draft,’ going beyond the gimmick and demonstrating the potential of the technology.
The People’s Choice Prize, with nearly 1000 votes cast, was awarded to Victorian artist Hanna Silver for her work, “Robot Intermarriage, Melbourne 1895, 2023.”
Notably, Melbourne-based designer Breeanna Hill and Sydney artist Carolyn McKay received high commendations from the judges for their exceptional submissions.
Visitors can view the Prompted Peculiar – International AI Prize exhibition at the BAad Gallery & Events space as part of the Ballarat International Foto Biennale until October 22.
The Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a fully immersive event featuring over 2000 photographic works displayed in various locations, including buildings, galleries, laneways, and outdoor spaces throughout the historic regional city of Ballarat. The Biennale is set to run until October 22, 2023.
To learn more about this captivating event, visit ballaratfoto.org.
