Short Description
Australia’s most inclusive and exciting contemporary art prize is back, bigger and bolder than ever, running 19 January to 22 March 2026.
Whether you’re an emerging or an established artist, the Wyndham Art Prize (WAP) 2026 invites practitioners across Australia to submit their most powerful, thought-provoking, or unexpected work. With a growing prize pool and expanded categories, this year’s edition celebrates the full spectrum of artistic expression.
The Wyndham Art Prize proudly champions inclusivity and welcomes works in a variety of artforms including painting, sculpture, photography, video, works on paper and digital media.
Held at the newly refurbished Wyndham Art Gallery, the 2026 exhibition will showcase the finalists in a dynamic, high-profile public space.
The gallery is thrilled to announce the judging panel for the 2026 Wyndham Art Prize are acclaimed and past WAP winner Camille Hannah, Head Curator at Heide Museum of Modern Art, Kendrah Morgan, and Lardil Curator & Writer Maya Hodge.
Eligibility
- Entry is restricted to Australian citizens and permanent residents who are aged 16 years and above and who have resided in Australia for at least 12 months. Wyndham Art Prize 2023 winners are able to enter the competition but are ineligible for any of the prizes. Council staff, Councillors, judges and their immediate families are not eligible to enter.
- Entrants aged under 18 years of age must obtain their parent or guardian’s consent to enter this competition. Entrants acknowledge that Council may contact the parent/guardian stated in the entrant’s entry form at any time for the purpose of confirming that consent has been provided.
- To be eligible for the Local Prize, you must:
- a) be a resident of Wyndham;
- b) not be a previous Wyndham Art Prize winner in any category.
Submission Requirements
- Personal Info
- Artwork Sample
- Artist Statement
- CV
How to Apply
Online Application
Program Benefits & Awards
- First Prize: 15,000
- Second Prize: 10,000
- Third Prize: 8,000
- Local Emerging Art Award (Acquisitive): $5,000
- People’s Choice Award: $2,500
Entry Fee
Pay the $35 non-refundable administration fee via Eventbrite.
Location
Australia
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 3 October 2025
Website Link: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/arts-culture/art-gallery/wyndham-art-prize-2026
