Entries are now open for the 27th annual Portrait of a Senior Territorian Award, with winners to be announced during Seniors Month in August.
The Award celebrates the seniors who shaped our unique Territory lifestyle and strengthens intergenerational connections.
More than $11,000 in prize money is on offer in 2026, providing strong support and recognition for Territory artists across multiple categories.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is continuing to rebuild the Northern Territory's creative economy and celebrate the people who shaped our unique Territory lifestyle, with entries now open for the 2026 Portrait of a Senior Territorian (POAST) Art Award.
Artists across the Territory are invited to pick up their brushes, pencils and cameras to help tell the stories of our elders through this award, now in its 27th year.
In 2026, the Award will once again be presented during Seniors Month in August, continuing a tradition cemented during the Award's 25th anniversary.
Minister for Arts and Seniors Jinson Charls said the Award reflects the Government's 2026 focus on Growth, Certainty and Security - growing our creative industries, providing certainty for artists and celebrating the seniors who strengthen our communities.
"Senior Territorians have built the communities we are proud to call home," Mr Charls said.
"The Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award honours their stories while backing Territory artists to develop their craft and showcase their talent.
"This Award creates meaningful connections between generations and ensures the stories of our seniors are preserved for the future.
"I encourage artists from Darwin to Alice Springs, Katherine and right across the Territory to put their work forward and be part of the 2026 Award."
Delivered by Tactile Arts on behalf of the Northern Territory Government, the Award has become a distinctive feature of the Territory's cultural calendar.
Aaron Moore, 2025 POAST winner, said participating in the Award was a deeply rewarding experience.
"Spending time with Bill in his home, sketching while listening to his stories over cups of tea, was something I will always treasure," Mr Moore said.
"The Award's celebration of senior Territorians and local art enriches our community for everyone."
Running alongside the portrait prize is the popular 'Selfie with a Senior' Award, proudly sponsored by COTA NT.
The initiative invites Territorians to celebrate seniors through photography and storytelling across generations.
COTA NT CEO Sue Shearer said the award was a powerful way to capture intergenerational connections.
"This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the bond between older and younger Territorians," Ms Shearer said.
"Senior Territorians have shaped our communities and contributed richly to the fabric of our Territory lifestyle. This is a chance to recognise someone who deserves a spotlight - every story matters."
Rachel Jericho, winner of the 2025 Selfie with a Senior Award, said the experience connected three generations of her family and reinforced the importance of celebrating seniors and their connection to the Territory.
2026 prizes include:
First Prize: $7,000Second Prize: $2,000Third Prize: $500People's Choice Award: $1,000Young Artist Award (ages 16-25): $500
Originally launched in 1999 to mark the International Year of Older Persons, the Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award continues to celebrate the contributions of senior Territorians while providing a respected platform for NT artists to shine.
Entries are now open and close at midnight on Monday 8 June 2026.
To enter visit Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award here
