The Mandorla Art Award and Committee Members 

30 May, 2025

The Mandorla Art Award is Australia’s most significant thematic Christian art prize, inviting contemporary artists to engage deeply with biblical texts. Established in 1985, this biennial award offers a unique platform for creative exploration of spirituality and scripture. 

Named after the Italian word mandorla—the almond-shaped halo in Christian iconography—the award symbolizes divine light and the union of heaven and earth. Each award cycle features a specific biblical theme, challenging artists to reflect, interpret, and create works that resonate with faith and modern society. 

Based in Perth, Western Australia, the award culminates in a major exhibition, with selected works also touring to venues such as St John of God Health Care campuses and St Mary’s Cathedral. Winning pieces become part of the prestigious New Norcia Museum and Art Gallery collection. 

Meet the Mandorla Art Award Committee & Team 

The Mandorla Art Award is guided by a diverse and passionate group of people dedicated to fostering dialogue between art and faith: 

  • Dr. Angela McCarthy (Chairperson) – A theologian and Adjunct Senior Lecturer at Notre Dame University, she focuses on beauty and Christian worship, believing art can reveal timeless truths. 
  • Mary Casotti (Deputy Chair) – Educator, counsellor, artist, and photographer, Mary sees art and religion as shared expressions of the imagination, shaping cultural and spiritual awareness. 
  • Dr. Tania Watson (Treasurer) – Executive Minister at Riverview Church, she advocates for creativity within the church and sees art as a vital space for theological and human exploration. 
  • Rhys Machell – Musician and minister with over 20 years in performance and production, bringing a fresh lens to artistic expression and spiritual engagement. 
  • Joel Gibson – A Christian, photographer, and writer, Joel brings a faith-based perspective and love of storytelling to the committee.
  • Rebecca Hepworth –  A practicing artist and Christian, Rebecca is passionate about Mandorla’s mission to inspire sacred art that reveals the beauty of God.

    Non-committee Team Members:
  • Mandy-Lynn Van Der Schyff – An active contributor to the Christian arts scene, Mandy-Lynn brings media and marketing insight and creative vision and support to the committee’s mission. 
  • Erin Coates – A practicing artist and curator, Erin offers expertise in contemporary art practice and exhibition curation, enriching the committee’s approach to visual storytelling.