More than 60 local artists will keep it blunt this weekend, as one of the city's most anticipated annual arts events touches down at Pink Phoenix Studio Gallery in Westcourt.

Touted as a tongue-in-cheek version of the Archibald portrait prize, the Blunt Edge Of Portraiture has established itself as one of the most fun (and best-attended) nights out on the Cairns arts calendar, with more and more artists signing on each year. Co-creator of the Blunt Edge Of Portraiture  Dominic Johns (left) says the concept was born in Cairns four years ago.

“In early 2007, Roland Nancarrow and I were enjoying a beer on his back deck while talking about the art scene in Cairns,” he says.

“We both agreed there was a lack of opportunity for artists to exhibit in group shows and thought it would be a good idea if there was a show that enabled emerging artists to meet and work with more established ones.

“As somewhat reactionary guys, we thought we could set up our own version of the Archibald and keep a distinctly ‘Cairnsian’ flavour in the mix by excluding all the things that used to p---- us off about establishment rules. As Roland was to describe it – keep it blunt!”

Last year’s Blunt Edge Of Portraiture  saw a male artist take out the prize for the first time – who will take out 2011? Make sure you head down this Friday night and find out!

>>  Blunt Edge Of Portraiture  is this Friday night at Pink Phoenix Studio Gallery in Westcourt from 6pm. Entertainment comes from Jeremiah Johnson, Zilch, Blu Lustre and DJ Saville. all welcome – Entry is by gold coin donation.

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