The Bald Archy Prize returns in 2027, inviting artists of all styles and experience levels across Australia to submit comic or satirical portraits of distinguished Australians in art, science, literature, politics, sport or the media.
Established in 1994 by Peter Batey OAM, the competition celebrates humour, parody, caricature and the irreverent Australian spirit. The prize is administered by the Museum of the Riverina and is known for its unconventional judging process, with Professor Maude Cockatoo, a sulphur-crested cockatoo, serving as the competition’s sole judge.
Prizes:
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First Prize: $10,000 acquisitive award.
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People’s Choice Award: $2,000, sponsored by Briggs Law.
Entry requirements:
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Entry fee: $50 per artwork.
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Maximum of two artworks per artist.
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Work must be a comic or satirical portrait of a distinguished Australian.
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The subject must be inspired by events occurring in the 12 months before 1 January 2027.
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Maximum framed dimensions: 1000 × 1500 mm, with neither side exceeding 1200 mm.
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Works must be suitably framed for hanging, with D-hooks, and securely packaged for delivery.
Entries must be submitted through the online entry form, with artwork delivered or posted to the Watson Arts Centre in Canberra during the designated delivery periods.
The exhibition launches in February 2027 at the Watson Arts Centre before touring regional New South Wales and Victoria, eventually concluding at the Museum of the Riverina in Wagga Wagga.
