Entries are now open for the churchie emerging art prize (‘the churchie’) with $55,000 in prizes. An amazing opportunity for early-career artists!
This year ‘the churchie’ is returning bigger than ever, featuring a total prize pool of $55,000. In addition to the non-acquisitive cash prizes, finalists can gain valuable exposure and an exhibition opportunity. The overall major prize of $40,000, generously provided by long-time sponsor BSPN Architecture, offers an excellent chance for emerging artists to boost their careers!
In addition to the overall prize, there is a Special Commendation Prize of $5,000, sponsored by Fardoulys Constructions, as well as two Commendation Prizes of $2,500 each, sponsored by Madison Cleaning Services. All winners will be announced by a guest judge at the official opening event of the Finalists’ Exhibition on Friday, 24 July 2026. At the end of the exhibition, a People’s Choice Award of $5,000, sponsored by Hutchinson Builders, will be awarded based on popular vote.
Emerging artists over the age of 18 who are Australian citizens or permanent residents are invited to enter. The call for entries is open from 1 April to 24 May and welcomes applications from artists working in a range of visual art forms — from drawing and painting to three-dimensional and video works.
2026 Key Dates:
Entries Open: 1 April
Entries Close: 24 May
Exhibition Opening + Prize Announcement: 24 July
Finalists’ Exhibition: 25 July to 8 August
In 2026, ‘the churchie’ will return for the third consecutive year to program partner Metro Arts in West End, Brisbane. This partnership has strengthened the prize’s evolution, with Metro Arts being recognised as a creative hub that fosters thought-provoking and exhilarating art from both current and future Australian artists.
Images: ‘the churchie’ 2025 Finalists (from left to right)
Donina Asera, Sebrack Leaves the Ancestral Home, 2023. Acrylic and pencil on canvas, 122 x 242cm (detail).
Lilli Waters, Maelstrom, 2023. Photography, 68 x 102cm.
Ruth Ju-shih Li, Florlege II, 2025. Wax, cotton, scent, found object, 26 x 16 x 17cm.
Tiarnie Edwards, Blak Bone, 2025. Ceramics, 53 x 40 x 35cm. Photograph courtesy of APY Art Centre Collective.
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