Think Turner Prize and you think abstract art, weird videos and Tracy Emin's famous unmade bed.
Which is why Colchester artist Francis Terry's work was never a contender.
But now one of his "proper" paintings will hang in the Mall Galleries in London, as one of 20 finalists in the "Not the Turner Prize" competition.
On show - artist Francis Terry, who's picture is on show at the Mall Galleries in London Picture: STEVE BRADING
The new art prize was set up by a national newspaper which believed the Turner Prize did not represent art in Britain today.
With a top prize of £20,000, the same as the Turner Prize, entrants had to paint and create traditional, figurative paintings.
With more than 10,000 entries, a panel of judges cut those down to a shortlist of 400 and then eventually to 20 finalists, which includes Mr Terry's entry, Bacchus 2000.
The qualified architect, who lives in Maldon Road, has been painting since childhood and created his masterpiece five years ago.
Mr Terry said: "I love Velazquez and this painting is based on one of his works in the Prada Gallery in Madrid.
"I liked the idea that I painted it when I was 29, which was about the same age Velazquez painted his."
Not The Turner Prize runs at the Mall Galleries until June 14
Published Wednesday, June 4, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article