Now in its 38th year, ‘the churchie’ emerging art prize continues its proud legacy as Australia’s longest-running prize dedicated to early-career artists. From a competitive pool of over 450 entries, 18 talented finalists have been selected for the 2025 exhibition at Metro Arts, Brisbane.
Presented in partnership with Metro Arts, this national prize champions innovation, diversity, and emerging voices in contemporary art. Finalists will vie for awards from a prize pool of over $40,000, including a $30,000 Major Prize supported by BSPN Architecture. Additional commendation prizes include a $5,000 Special Commendation from Fardoulys Constructions, two $1,500 Commendations from Madison Facility Services, and a $3,000 People’s Choice Award sponsored by Hutchinson Builders.
The 2025 judging panel will be led by Myles Russell-Cook, Artistic Director and CEO of ACCA, known for his curatorial work across landmark exhibitions such as Melbourne Now and Queer: Stories from the NGV Collection.
The 2025 Finalists:
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Myarn Alden (SA)
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Donina Asera (VIC)
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Joseph de la Hoyde (NSW)
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Tiarnie Edwards (SA)
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Tory Epworth (NSW)
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Emma Rani Hodges (ACT)
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Jack Hodges (NSW)
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Teddy Horton (QLD)
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Sarah Louise Kinsella (NSW)
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Sophie Lampert (NSW)
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Rosemary Lee (NSW)
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Ruth Ju-shih Li (NSW)
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Jorge Marino Brito (QLD)
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Melissa Nguyen (VIC)
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Jake Preval (VIC)
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Grace Stevenson (VIC)
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Bianca Tainsh (QLD)
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Lilli Waters (VIC)
The exhibition will be accompanied by a free Education Kit for teachers and students, offering curriculum-linked activities to support learning in both gallery and classroom settings.
