2026 Surf Coast Shire Community Art Prize
The Surf Coast Shire Community Arts Prize celebrates the creativity and talent of artists from across the Surf Coast Shire.
Local artists of all ages have been invited to enter an original artwork, with entries to be exhibited at Anglesea Art Space from 8 to 25 October 2026.
The exhibition brings together work from artists across the Surf Coast Shire and is a chance to discover the creativity happening in our local community.
The overall Community Art Prize is $1,500, with additional awards for an Emerging Artist, First Nations Creative and People’s Choice, bringing the total prize pool to $3,600.
Applications for the 2026 Community Arts Prize have now closed. Thank you to everyone who entered.
Visit the exhibition
The 2026 Surf Coast Shire Community Arts Prize exhibition will be open at Anglesea Art Space from Thursday 8 to Sunday 25 October 2026.
Come along to see the artworks entered by local artists and vote for your favourite in the People’s Choice Award.
Exhibition dates: Thursday 8 to Sunday 25 October 2026
Opening hours: Thursday to Sunday, 11am to 4pm
Location: Anglesea Art Space, Shop 2/103 Great Ocean Road, Anglesea
People’s Choice voting takes place in person at Anglesea Art Space and closes at 4pm on Sunday 25 October.
Opening celebration
Join us to celebrate the opening of the 2026 Surf Coast Shire Community Arts Prize exhibition and the artists taking part.
The Community Arts Prize, Emerging Artist Award and First Nations Creative Award will be announced on the night.
Friday 9 October 2026
6pm to 8pm
Anglesea Art Space
More information and to RSVP
Key dates for participating artists
Artwork drop off: Monday 5 October, 3pm to 6pm at Anglesea Art Space
Exhibition: Thursday 8 to Sunday 25 October 2026
Opening celebration: Friday 9 October, 6pm to 8pm
People’s Choice voting closes: Sunday 25 October, 4pm
Artwork pick up: Monday 26 October, 3pm to 6pm at Anglesea Art Space
More information
Contact the Arts Development Team for more information:
Access information
We’re committed to making the Community Arts Prize accessible and welcoming for everyone.
If you’d like to discuss accessibility requirements or support you may need to apply or take part, please contact the Surf Coast Shire Arts Development Team. We’re here to help.
Photography: Bobby Dazzler Photography.