Celebrating 30 years of the Emerald Art Awards

The Emerald Art Awards are back for their 30th year in 2023!

Entries are open on our website now, with opening night being hosted on Saturday 5 August at 6.00 pm at the Emerald Art Gallery.

Mayor Kerry Hayes commented on the long-standing event.

‘It’s amazing to see 30 years of art awards in Emerald,’ Mayor Hayes said.

‘Truly a testament to all that have helped run the event over the years, but also to the many talented artists that enter every year.’

‘It will be extra special, as we celebrate this year’s event and all that have come before it,’ he said.

To commemorate this occasion, the awards’ opening night will host many previous winners and judges.

Last year’s acquisitive prize winner, Jet James, is entering again this year and cannot wait to be part of the event.

‘I felt both thrilled and humbled when the gallery acknowledged my work and acquired it. I have been entering these awards for more than a decade now,’ Mr James said.

‘I plan on entering again this year. I have been busy creating new works and collections.’

Entries for this year’s event are now open. Established and emerging artists of all ages can submit entries in up to seven categories. From easel, paper-based and three-dimensional works to photography and digital art, each category comes with a $750 prize for first and $250 prize for second place.

Each year, judges award the prestigious Central Highlands Regional Council Acquisitive Award to the most outstanding work from all categories and recognise local talent with the Central Highlands Regional Council Local Artist Award. Categories are also available for the 12 years and under and 13-18 years youth sections. People’s Choice Award will be decided by on-line vote.

For more information, and to submit works, click here.

‘Growing up on a cattle property and currently living in Yeppoon, I am a firm believer in supporting local art communities, but I must admit that the prize money also played a role in my decision to participate,’ he finished.

Keep an eye on the Central Highlands Galleries Instagram and Facebook pages in the lead up to the event, as they will showcase many previous winners’ pieces over the years.

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