Entries are now officially open for the prestigious Swan Hill Print and Drawing Acquisitive Awards 2026, inviting artists from across Australia to showcase their talent in one of the nation's leading works-on-paper prizes.
Hosted by the Art Gallery of Swan Hill, the biennial awards celebrate excellence in contemporary printmaking and drawing, while continuing to build the Gallery's nationally significant collection. This year's awards carry added significance, with the exhibition to be presented in the Gallery's newly developed facility, offering an exciting opportunity to showcase finalist works in a contemporary, purpose-built space. The awards were last held in 2022, with the 2024 event paused due to the redevelopment of the gallery, making this year's return especially anticipated.
With a total acquisitive prize pool of $20,000, two major awards will be presented - one for a print and one for a drawing. Each winning work will be acquired into the Gallery's permanent collection, with selected artists receiving the value of their artwork plus an additional amount up to $10,000.
Art Gallery Director Ian Tully said the awards provide an important platform for both emerging and established artists.
"Each edition of the Print and Drawing Awards brings together an exceptional cross-section of contemporary Australian practice," Mr Tully said.
"We are especially excited to be hosting this year's awards in our new gallery space, which will allow us to present the exhibition in a fresh and dynamic way. We are proud to support artists by not only showcasing their work, but by acquiring outstanding pieces that strengthen our collection for future generations."
Artists are invited to submit original prints or drawings created after June 2024, with no limit on the number of entries. Each submission must include an entry form, a high-resolution image, and a $45 entry fee per work.
Entries are open now and will close on 17 May 2026, with finalists announced on 12 June 2026. The exhibition will culminate in the official awards announcement on 1 August 2026, followed by a public exhibition and artist walk-through event.
The awards continue to play a vital role in promoting Australian artists and fostering cultural engagement in regional Victoria, attracting submissions from across the country and delivering a high-calibre exhibition to Swan Hill audiences.
Entries and full conditions can be accessed online via the Art Gallery of Swan Hill website.
