Entries are now open for Rockhampton Museum of Art's The Bayton Award.
The competition returns for the seventh iteration in 2025 with $18,200 in prizes including, two emerging artist bursaries and new Mini Bayton categories for young artists.
The biennial art prize, organised by Rockhampton Museum of Art, is open to artists working with all form of art media residing in Central Queensland. In 2025 two new 'Mini Bayton' categories have been introduced for young artists aged 5 – 14 for 2D works on A3 paper.
The Bayton Award is named in honour of The Right Reverend John Bayton who was the Chair of Rockhampton Art Gallery's Art Acquisition Fund in 1975. An artist in his own right, he was instrumental in establishing Rockhampton's collection of nationally significant artworks, together with Mayor Rex Pilbeam, Architect Neil McKendry and Gallery Director Don Taylor.
A selection panel of visual arts experts from outside Central Queensland will shortlist the entries, with finalists going on to be exhibited at Rockhampton Museum of Art in November 2025 through to February 2026.
The selection panel comprises:
Shannon Brett, a proud Wakka Wakka/Butchulla/Gooreng Gooreng artist, photographer, designer, educator, researcher and curator
Geraldine Henrici, artist and artsworker with over 17 years' experience in the visual arts sector
Sarah Thomson, Director, Hervey Bay Regional Art Gallery
The 2025 special guest judge is Brian Robinson, an accomplished Australian artist, is renowned for his printmaking, sculpture, and public art. Originally from Waiben and now based in Cairns, he employs diverse techniques to create bold and innovative works. Robinson's family, with roots in fishing and a blend of Roman Catholic faith and traditional spirituality, hails from the Maluyligal people of Torres Strait and the Wuthathi people of Cape York Peninsula.
Entries will be accepted via an online platform only, and entrants are encouraged to read the full terms and conditions.
Rockhampton Regional Council Communities and Heritage Spokesperson Cr Drew Wickerson said that The Bayton Award was an exciting time for local artists.
"It's a great opportunity for our local artists to shine and Council is very happy to have created and continue to deliver this award," he said.
"I encourage local artists, in particular young / emerging artists, to submit entries to the competition," he said.
Entries are now open and will close on Monday 4 August at 4pm.
