Artists from across the country are welcome to submit an expression of interest. Selected artists will be given $5000 to create a new work that will become part of the Gekko collection, and have their artwork promoted worldwide.

The works will also be reproduced onto postcards and related Gekko Systems marketing, with the artists acknowledged at all times.

All mediums will be considered including painting, prints, photographs, sculpture, writings and objects that relate to gold mining in Ballarat and “create a contemporary response”.

The new art prize has been established to celebrate Gekko Systems’ 20 years in business, which was founded in 1996 in Avoca but now has its headquarters in Ballarat.

Artists have until June 10 to submit an expression of interest to curator Julie Collins at projects@djprojects.net. More information at www.djprojects.net/goldencity