Cara Baldwin 2020
Fashion Designer | Awarded $10,000
The scholarship recipient of the Robert Juniper Award for the Arts 2020 was Cara Baldwin of Lollipop of Love Designs. The judges noted that Cara's arts practice is unique, varied and joyful; simplistic but considered, and that her contribution to the arts fitted into the commercial culture of art in today's world.
Cara is the first artist living with disability to win the Award in its 33-year history.
The Award may assist Cara to establish a profile as an emerging artist, and allow her to establish a career in visual arts. The Award may provide Cara with the opportunity to diversify her product range, offering homewares to high fashion and eventually open up new markets for her. With the funds granted through this Award, Cara is planning to develop a range of fashion items that will be showcased later in 2021.
Cara enjoys designing, and her designs reflect her passion for animals and conversation. Her mother Delia shares these values, and is Delia’s strongest supporter, along with her grandmother and grandfather. Delia explained “Special needs people often get a lot of exclusion and are not included in things. This award helps to break that cycle.”
Last year Cara spent some time with judge Val Shiell, and Echo Journalist Claire Ottaviano. Cara spoke about her designs, and the design process, and showed Val and Cara some of her homewares and clothing. Read Claire's article about Cara HERE.
Visit Cara’s Facebook page HERE.