We are delighted to announce that more than 85 artists have registered to exhibit in the 2026 QPRC & Bendigo Bank Art Awards!
This year, the professional judging panel will feature two esteemed arts industry leaders: Louise Wakefield, President of Southern Tableland Arts and Kacy Grainger, Arts Manager and Curator of Grainger Galleries.
Kacy Grainger is the Director and Head Curator at Grainger Gallery in Canberra, she is a graduate of ANU School of Arts and brings over a decade of gallery curatorial experince to the judging table. She is passionate about bringing new talent forward to art collectors, while also maintaining relationships with established artists in our region. Kacy has spearheaded Grainger Galleries involvement with a number of regional arts events, most recently with the Capital Plein Air Festival.
Louise Wakefield is the President of the Board of Southern Tablelands Arts. Known for her collaborative spirit, Louise is instrumental in fostering relationships that create a thriving cultural ecosystem across the STA Region. Within her role she uses her extensive expertise and experience to emphasise the significance of partnerships and connections. Louise has over 20 years' experience working with local government and the private sector, including the role of Director Growth, Strategy & Culture at Goulburn Mulwaree Council.
Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council Mayor Kenrick Winchester and representatives from Bendigo Bank will be presiding over several special prize categories. Their judging deliberations have been made especially difficult this year due to a record-breaking number of entrants.
To accommodate the large volume of artworks, the exhibition will be showcased across two gallery spaces: The Q Exhibition Space and The LinQ Gallery! Both venues are located within The Q & The B Performing Arts Centre in the heart of the Queanbeyan civic precinct.
We invite the QPRC community to get involved by casting their vote for the Viewer's Choice Award, with voting open throughout the exhibition. This year, voters will also have the chance to win a Voters Lucky Draw Prize, which will be announced at the close of the exhibition on 13 June.
The Annual Art Awards Exhibition will officially open on Saturday 16 May at 4 pm, with the prize announcements beginning at 5pm. We look forward to celebrating this exciting showcase with you!
| Exhibition dates: | 16 May - 13 June 2026 |
| Opening Event: |
