13 August 2026
Territory artist Katalin Horompo wins first prize in 27th annual Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award.
Minister for Arts and Seniors Jinson Charls said the awards celebrated Territorians whose stories and contributions have helped shape the Territory.
Free 2026 Portrait of a Senior Territorian exhibition is open to the public at Parliament House until Sunday 13 September 2026.
Senior Territorians and the stories that connect generations are taking centre stage, with the winners of the 27th annual Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award announced at Parliament House.
Territory artist Katalin Horompo has taken out the $7,000 first prize for Storytime: Conjuring Artemisia, a striking portrait of respected Territory playwright, dramaturg and director Sandra Thibodeaux.
Judges praised the work for its technical mastery, elegant composition and powerful storytelling, describing it as the standout portrait of this year's exhibition.
Minister for Arts, Youth, Seniors and Equality Jinson Charls said the awards were a celebration of the remarkable Territorians whose stories and contributions have helped shape the Territory.
"Senior Territorians hold a special place in our families and communities. They share their wisdom and experience with us, enrich our lives with their love and leave us with memories we carry forever," Minister Charls said.
"This year's finalists have shown extraordinary creativity, skill and individuality, and I congratulate all the artists who put their work forward.
"Congratulations to Katalin Horompo on taking out first prize, and to all of this year's winners. Their work demonstrates the strength and diversity of artistic talent in the Territory."
Alice Cirrottola took second prize for Behind the Scenes: Charlie King, while Bill Davies received third prize for Me (Self Portrait).
The $500 Young Artist Award went to Erika Loose for Donna Ah Chee, with judges recognising her strong observational skills and ability to capture both the character of her sitter and a strong sense of place.
Alicia Scobie received a Highly Commended recognition for I Call Her Yapa, praised by judges as a striking and memorable portrait with a bold and expressive approach.
The 35 finalists in this year's exhibition showcase the depth, diversity and creativity of Territory artists, while celebrating the senior Territorians whose wisdom, experience and contributions have helped shape communities across the NT.
Tactile Arts delivers the award and exhibition on behalf of the Northern Territory Government under a five-year funding agreement.
Following its successful exhibition in Alice Springs in 2025, the Portrait of a Senior Territorian exhibition returned to Darwin for 2026.
Running alongside the portrait award is the Selfie with a Senior competition, celebrating the connections, memories and love shared between generations.
Nevanka McKeon received the $1,000 prize for her heartfelt photograph of her father, Dave, capturing his familiar cheeky grin and the warmth of their enduring father-daughter relationship.
COTA NT sponsors and judges the Selfie with a Senior competition.
The free 2026 Portrait of a Senior Territorian exhibition is open to the public at Parliament House until Sunday 13 September 2026.
2026 Portrait of a Senior Territorian Art Award winners
1st Prize - $7,000: Katalin Horompo - Storytime: Conjuring Artemisia - Portrait of Sandra Thibodeaux2nd Prize - $2,000: Alice Cirrottola - Behind the Scenes: Charlie King3rd Prize - $500: Bill Davies - Me (Self Portrait)Young Artist Award - $500: Erika Loose - Donna Ah CheeHighly Commended: Alicia Scobie - I Call Her Yapa
