Ogilvy and Mather Sydney creative finalist in Blake Prize

Ogilvy & Mather Sydney art director, Simon McGrath, has been named a finalist in the 60th annual Blake Prize for his photograph exploring the theme of Disconnection and Supermarketification.

Australia's best-known and most controversial award for contemporary art exploring the themes of spirituality, religion and human justice, The Blake Prize features 72 finalists chosen from over 1100 entries.

McGrath said that as a professional creative the idea of photographing products that are not  usually advertised was odd but that he belived there was a clear creative, social and religious message.
"There is a real disconnection for society in the foods we eat, like bread and wine, which are so over produced that they are nothing like they were 2000 years ago. Their nutrients have been stripped out, preservatives chucked in, and packaged up, so that every loaf or bottle looks the same and sits neatly on a supermarket shelf," he said.
"I think you can see the same forces at work in our churches. How far have we come from the original 'good food' of God's word and God's good church? Are we selling out the real thing for a cheaper no-frills version?’"

Ogilvy Australia's executive chairman, Tom Moult said McGrath was a talented, highly awarded artist who's work has at times been quite controversial.
"Simon brings an interesting perspective to our creative team, and we support his artistic
endeavours," he said.