Judges Sarah Brown, of Invercargill, and Chloe Cull, of Christchurch, said Mr Milne was ‘‘highly skilled’’ in the very old and rare art of scrimshaw.
‘‘In these tiny scenes, Gus Milne captures big stories and histories.
‘‘He is an incredibly well-researched artist, with a deep interest in the global history of his craft that he uses to explore aspects of Aotearoa New Zealand's history within.
‘‘He reflects on the long-term impact on the environment of the materials he uses, and is careful to reuse materials and work sustainability,’’ they said.
The event attracts artists from around New Zealand and offers a total prize pool of $28,500.
More than 1300 people visited the nationally recognised art exhibition, the 18th held at the school.
It is one of the school’s biggest fundraisers and is expected to raise more than $30,000 this year, with 156 pieces on show.
Runner-up was Dunedin artist Anne Baldock, who received $3000 for her painting The Stakeholders.
Best landscape ($2500) went to artist Sean Beldon for his oil painting Remarkables.
The Best Work under $1000 went to Lisa Banks for her oil painting Leaving Takaka.
The People’s Choice Award went to Nelle Paton for Return to Lake Hāwea.
The Merit Award was won by Katie Robinson for Tulip Season.
More than 50 works were sold.
None of the artwork had been exhibited before.
Aspiring Art Prize event manager Kelcey Radford said the exhibition was a huge success.
‘‘We were unsure what to expect with the current economic climate but are confident that the diverse and outstanding quality of works has contributed to drawing in purchasers from around the country.’’
- Wanaka Sun
