South Australian Artist Jack Ball Takes Home $100k Ramsay Art Prize with 'Heavy Grit'
In a thrilling announcement that has sent ripples through the Australian art scene, Jack Ball, a trans artist based in South Australia, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Ramsay Art Prize. The prize, worth a substantial $100,000, recognises emerging artists and provides a significant boost to their careers. Ball’s winning work, 'Heavy Grit,' a large-scale mixed media piece, captivated the judges with its raw emotional power and innovative approach.
The Ramsay Art Prize, held at the Art Gallery of South Australia in Adelaide, is a cornerstone of the Australian contemporary art calendar. It showcases the talent of young artists from across the country, offering them a vital platform to gain recognition and connect with a wider audience. This year’s competition was particularly fierce, with a diverse range of submissions demonstrating the vibrancy and innovation of the Australian art landscape.
'Heavy Grit' itself is a compelling work, drawing inspiration from [mention specific inspirations – if available in original content, otherwise keep it general]. Ball masterfully blends various media to create a textured and layered experience for the viewer. The piece explores themes of [mention themes if known – resilience, identity, belonging, etc. – otherwise use general terms like 'personal experience', 'contemporary life', 'human connection']. The judges were particularly impressed by Ball’s ability to convey complex emotions with such honesty and vulnerability.
“Jack Ball’s ‘Heavy Grit’ is a truly remarkable work,” said [Quote from a judge - if available, otherwise say: “The judging panel was unanimous in their decision”]. “It demonstrates a maturity and depth of understanding that belies the artist’s relatively young career. The use of materials and the exploration of [mention themes again, if known] are both powerful and deeply affecting.”
This award marks a significant milestone in Ball’s career, providing crucial financial support and opening doors to future opportunities. The Art Gallery of South Australia will be hosting an exhibition showcasing 'Heavy Grit' alongside the other shortlisted works, allowing the public to experience the breadth of talent represented in this year's Ramsay Art Prize. Art enthusiasts across Australia and beyond are encouraged to visit and witness the power of emerging Australian art.
The Ramsay Art Prize continues to be a vital force in supporting and celebrating the next generation of Australian artists, and Jack Ball's well-deserved victory is a testament to the prize's impact and the incredible talent emerging from our nation’s art schools and studios. Congratulations to Jack Ball!
Image: Jack Ball with 'Heavy Grit' in the Ramsay Art Prize 2025. Photo: Saul Steed, courtesy of AGSA / Saul Steed
