Last week, the 2026 Youth Art Prize Awards took centre stage at the Forge Theatre and Arts Hub in Bairnsdale, celebrating the creativity and talent of East Gippsland’s young artists aged 12–25.
With 29 entries, the event featured a diverse range of works, from painting and sculpture to photography and
digital design, highlighting the unique voices and perspectives of the region’s young people.
Families, teachers, judges and community members gathered for an evening of celebration, with awards presented across 2D, 3D, digital media, photography and collaborative categories.
The 2026 Youth Art Prize Exhibition is now on display at the Forge Theatre, 80 McKean Street, Bairnsdale, and will remain on display until October 26.
The exhibition is open Wednesday to Friday, 9am–12pm.
2026 Youth Art Prize winners
– 12–15 Years 2D: Grace Hall – Osmosis
– 16–20 Years 2D: Lily Nickless – The Littlest Companion
– 21–25 Years 2D: Jessika Arnold – Invertebrates
– 12–15 Years 3D: Steph Robinson – Curls for Days
– 16–20 Years 3D: Jessica Hocking – Wren
– Digital Media and Photography 12–15: Asha Andrews – Safety Net
– Digital Media and Photography 16–20: Leo Harvey – A Colourful Life
– Collaborative: Jessica Hocking – Helm
– Judges’ Choice: Jaxon Bentick-Gough – Tate
The judges also awarded Special Mentions to Cricket Harrison for The Creatures Within, Danielle Moss for Shattered, and Lily Nickless for The Littlest Companion.
