Since 2009, the IMA has had the honour of presenting the $10,000 award to a risk-taking Queensland artist in the early stages of their career, made possible through a bequest made by the family of Jeremy Hynes in his name.

Hynes was a key figure in the Brisbane art scene in the 1990s known for his daredevil performance art—lighting fires, smashing mirrors, and confining his audience to taxis. His experimental and courageous performances were a common highlight at the IMA and the artist run space ISNT. Hynes’ exhibition ‘Macro-Surveillance’ was presented at the IMA in 2000.

This sixth Jeremy Hynes Award recipient Tay Haggarty was selected by judges Justene Williams, Tony Albert, and IMA Director Liz Nowell. Haggarty will be awarded $10,000 and will receive mentorship to produce a solo exhibition at the IMA for mid 2020.