Young creatives across East Gippsland are being encouraged to submit their work for the 2026 East Gippsland Youth Art Prize, which is now open for entries.
The annual competition invites artists aged 12 to 25 who live, study or work in the region to showcase their creativity across a range of mediums, including painting, photography, digital art, film and 3D works.
East Gippsland Shire Council mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the prize provides an important platform for young people to share their ideas and develop their creative skills.
“This is your chance to put your creativity on display and be part of something bigger,” Cr Ashworth said.
“We know there is incredible talent right across East Gippsland, and the Youth Art Prize is about giving young people a platform to be seen, heard and celebrated.”
Selected works will be exhibited at the Brabuwooloong Gallery at The Forge Theatre and Arts Hub in Bairnsdale, giving participants the experience of exhibiting in a professional gallery setting.
The competition also includes a range of awards, including category prizes, a People’s Choice Award and an overall Judges’ Choice Award, with cash prizes on offer.
Council says the program is designed to support youth development by building confidence, creativity and problem-solving skills, while encouraging young people to express their perspectives beyond the classroom.
Entries are free, with one original artwork permitted per artist.
Key dates:
Entries open: Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 5pm
Entries close: Friday, August 7, 2026, 5pm
Exhibition launch and winners announced: Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 5pm
Location: Brabuwooloong Gallery, The Forge Theatre and Arts Hub, Bairnsdale
Winners will also be announced online via BraveArts.
Young artists across the region are encouraged to begin preparing their submissions ahead of the closing date.
