Entries are now open for the Deakin University Contemporary Small Sculpture Award 2026, an established national prize celebrating innovation in contemporary sculpture.
Founded in 2009, the award showcases outstanding small-scale sculptural practices from artists across Australia, culminating in a finalist exhibition at Deakin University Art Gallery on the Melbourne Burwood campus.
Each year, a panel of industry professionals selects approximately 40 finalists from a highly competitive field. The 2026 award introduces a new Emerging Sculptors Award, further supporting early-career practitioners alongside established artists.
Finalists will be exhibited from 24 August – 9 October 2026, offering significant exposure within a respected institutional setting.
Prizes:
Acquisitive First Prize: $15,000
Emerging Sculptors Award: $5,000
Highly Commended: $3,000
People’s Choice Award: $3,000
The winning work will be acquired into the Deakin University Art Collection.
