2026 Prize Details

About the Sunshine Coast National Art Prize 2026

2026 Prize Details
Image courtesy of the artist and Rebecca Hossack Art Gallery
Naomi Hobson | Rare | 2025 | pigment print on archival cotton rag paper | 83 x 83cm. Sunshine Coast National Art Prize 2025 - Artist Residency Winner

Entries open soon.

Open to Australian contemporary artists working in any 2D medium and in new media, the award offers a prize pool of more than $35,000.

The forty artworks selected as finalists will be exhibited at the Caloundra Regional Gallery from 21 August until 11 October 2026. 

The recipients of the Major prize, Highly Commended and Artist Residency will be determined by our guest judge. The major prizewinning artwork will be acquired into the Sunshine Coast Art Collection. Winners will be announced on Thursday 24 September 2026.

A People’s Choice Award will also be announced, as voted by exhibition visitors. You can vote for your favourite work from this year's finalists and go in the draw to win a $100 Gallery Store voucher.

Key dates and information

  • Entries open: Sunday 15 February 2026
  • Entries close: 11.59 Sunday 10 May 2026 AEST
  • Finalists notified by Friday 5 June 2026
  • Exhibition: Friday 21 August until Sunday 11 October 2026 
  • People's Choice voting closes: Sunday 13 September 2026
  • Winners announced: Thursday 24 September 2026

Prizes

  • Major Prize $25,000
  • Highly Commended Award $5000
  • People’s Choice Award: $2500
  • Artist residency accommodation and Artist residency vehicle
  • Artwork transport and logistics – supported by International Art Services (IAS)