The Brisbane Portrait Prize celebrates the city of Brisbane/Meeanjin and its people through contemporary portraiture. It recognises the courageous, creative and passionate individuals who shape our community, while showcasing the talent and vision of Brisbane’s artists.
About the Prize
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Encourages artists at all stages of their careers, offering mentoring, peer recognition and career advancement opportunities.
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Provides audiences with the chance to engage deeply with portraiture and the diverse stories of our city.
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Celebrates both sitters and artists, demonstrating how portraiture remains a vital and evolving art form.
Any artist with a connection to Brisbane is eligible to enter, and the sitter must also have a Brisbane connection. In 2025, over $100,000 in prizes and grants will be awarded.
The exhibition presents a diverse array of portraits: hyper-realistic paintings, expressive abstracts, and photographs that capture fleeting moments. Together, they invite us to pause, reflect, and “stare into the soul of Brisbane.”
Public Program
The Finalists Exhibition is more than an art show—it’s an experience. From family-friendly activities to artist talks, workshops, and special events, the program offers something for everyone. Most events are free, though some require booking due to limited spaces.
Exhibition Details
When: 20 September – 9 November 2025
Where: L2 slq Gallery, State Library of Queensland
Hours:
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Monday–Friday: 9am – 5pm
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Saturday & Sunday: 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Image: Jordy at Work up a Ladder on his Phone, Karl de Waal, Sitter: Jordan Azcune, Acrylic on Board, 120 x 120 cm, Represented by Self. (detail)
