Pilar de la Torre, visual artist, painter
I am a contemporary realist artist based in Melbourne Victoria my work is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Old Masters. I draw inspiration from the timeless genius of Michelangelo and other revered figures in art history. My practice encompasses painting, drawing, and sculpture, with a particular focus on the mediums of oils and watercolours.
My artistic journey is a continuous pursuit of excellence and skill refinement. I am passionate about capturing the essence of diverse subjects, ranging from portraiture and the human figure to interiors, still life, and landscapes. Each piece is an exploration of light, form, and texture, aiming to evoke a sense of depth and emotion that resonates with the viewer.
I am honoured to have been recognized as a finalist in several prestigious awards, including the Forty five downstairs Emerging Artist Award 2024, the Lethbridge 20000 in both 2024 and 2023, the Bluethumb Prize, the SBS Portrait Prize, the Kennedy Art Prize, and the AME Bale Travelling Scholarship, encompassing both drawing and painting categories. Additionally, representing Australia at the Russian Academy of Art in Saint Petersburg in 2019 was a significant milestone in my career, allowing me to engage with a broader artistic community and further hone my craft.
Beyond my personal artistic endeavours, I am dedicated to sharing my passion and knowledge through teaching. I believe that the continuous development of one's skills is paramount, and I am committed to fostering a creative environment where aspiring artists can grow and thrive.
In each piece I create, I strive to bridge the gap between the classical and the contemporary, honouring the past while contributing to the ongoing dialogue of art in the present. My work is a testament to the enduring power of realism, inviting viewers to look closely, reflect deeply, and find beauty in the details.
> Fortyfivedownstairs Emerging Artist finalist 2024
> Finalist Lethbridge 20000 Prize 2023 &2024
> Awarded the 2023 Robert’s Prize Sherbrooke Artist Society
> Finalist Bluethumb Prize 2022
> Finalist SBS Portrait Art Prize 2022
> Finalist Kennedy Art Prize Adelaide 2021
> Finalist 2020 AME Bale Travelling Scholarship, drawing and painting prize
> Selected 2019 to the Russian Academy of Art, Saint Petersburg
> Selected 2019 & 2020 Bayside Local Exhibition,
> Finalist 2019 Bayside Acquisitive Art Prize
> Finalist 2018 A.M.E. Bale Drawing Prize
> Awarded the 2018 Robert’s Prize - non Landscape, Sherbrooke Artist Society
> Highly Commended 2017, Self Portrait, Victorian Artist Society
> Encouragement Award 2017, Oil painting, Victorian Artist Society
> Finalist Rick Amore Drawing Prize 2016
> Awarded 2015 Best Portrait in oils Mooney Valley Art Show
> Finalist Kennedy Art Prize 2015, Adelaide
> Selected to the Salon des Refusés in 2005, Archibald alternative Exhibition
> Awarded the Julian Ashton Art School, Thea Proctor Scholarship
> Awarded Julian Ashton Art School, Phillip Muskett Prize for Landscape
> Awarded The North Sydney Art Prize – Landmark Prize