Essence is the basic, intrinsic nature of something – whether a person, a place, an object, or idea. It is the fundamental characteristic which gives something its individual identity. Essence also describes an extract concentrated from a plant or other matter that enhances our experience of the world through flavour and scent. It deepens our sensory perception beyond the visual. 
 
These layers of meaning, combined with the artwork size limitations, are a provocation to artists to subject their creative practice to a distillation process.  Essence asks artists to look beyond the façade and enquire into the core of their subject to discern its most significant element or defining quality. Their challenge is to capture and communicate this essence through their visual medium of choice.