Now in its second year, the St Columba’s Art Prize is an annual celebration of Australian artists. It seeks to promote diverse forms of creative expression and technical skill. Building upon the success of the inaugural event in 2025, the 2026 Prize invites artists to present ambitious new works, in a variety of mediums, on any theme. Artists will have the opportunity to engage with collectors, art enthusiasts, and the local community and may also be invited to lead workshops and community talks throughout the exhibition period. All Open Prize entries will be for sale. The exhibition will take place in the historic Brauer Hall at St Columba’s Catholic College in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales. This magnificent heritage-listed space provides a striking setting for contemporary art. Prize Categories Open – For residents of Australia: $10,000 Blue Mountains Artist – For residents of the Blue Mountains (these artists will also be eligible for the Open prize): $2,000 Youth – For young artists aged 12- to 19-years-old: $1,000 Youth Creativity Award – For students in year 12 in 2025: $1,000 sponsored by Western Sydney University. People’s Choice – Selected by popular vote during the exhibition. Mediums All mediums are accepted, including but not limited to painting, drawing, mixed media, textiles, sculpture, ceramics and printmaking. The prize does not accept photographic or digital works of any kind, including video works and digitally printed works; AI generated works, in whole or in part. Judges for 2026 Toby Chapman, Director, Penrith Regional Gallery; Juanita McLauchlan, Wagga Wagga-based, acclaimed Gamilaraay artist; Sarah Birtles, art consultant and curator. Key Dates Entries close: 3 March 2026 Finalists announced: 31 March 2026 Award night: 1 May 2026 Finalists’ Exhibition: 1–6 May 2026 For more information, to submit your entry form, and to view full terms and conditions, please visit the website: https://columbasartprize.com.au Captions: 1. 2026 St Columba’s Art Prize winners & special guest. (L to R) Neil Taylor, winner of Local Artist prize, Susan Templeman MP, Special Envoy for the Arts, Open Prize winner James Blackwell, and Youth Prize winner Indigo Herron. 2 – 4. St Columba’s Catholic College, inaugural Art Prize opening event Friday 2 May 2025.
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