Central Coast Library Service and the Gosford Regional Gallery team up to present a conversation with Kim E. Anderson, author of 'The Prize' - which was inspired by the scandal surrounding artist William Dobell's 1943 Archibald win.

This event is sure to intrigue and delight art and book lovers, sparking conversations about art, literature and changes in society.

Tickets: $5.50 each.

Doors open at 6pm for a 6.30pm start.

Bookings essential. Book online using the 'Book now' button, ask in any library branch or at the Gallery or phone either:

Gosford Library - 4304 7500
Gosford Regional Gallery - 4304 7550

About the book

When two artists enter the 1943 Archibald Prize, a scandal erupts that grips not only the art world, but the nation. A poignant love story with shattering consequences, inspired by real-life events.

‘Is that what you want to do? Peer into my soul and capture my flaws, for all to see?’

As World War II draws to a close, Australian society is still deeply conservative. Homosexuality is illegal and the scourge of Modernism is infecting Australian art.

When William Dobell paints a portrait of lover and fellow artist Joshua Smith, he is awarded Australia’s most prestigious art prize. However, Dobell’s celebration is cut short after a protest is lodged by his competitors, who claim the painting is a caricature. Both artist and sitter soon find themselves in the glare of the spotlight when a court case to determine the matter turns into a public spectacle.

Bill and Joshua’s relationship is put under pressure and at risk of being exposed as they are caught in a world where they must choose between love and art: between acceptance and exile.

About the Author

Kim E Anderson grew up in Sydney and has worked for a variety of book publishers and media organisations. She set up a new media division for HarperCollins in New York before returning to Australia where she joined PBL Online to set up Australia’s number one online portal ninemsn.com.au. She joined the Nine Television Network followed by Southern Star Entertainment. In 2009 she founded a social media site for readers based in New York. An avid reader, she now lives in Sydney and is also a non-executive director of a number of ASX listed companies and a director of the Sax Institute.