The Lester Prize Main Awards Exhibition 2026
Schedule
Sat Oct 10 2026 at 08:00 am to 05:00 pm
UTC+08:00Location
WA Museum Boola Bardip | Perth, WA
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LESTER PRIZE EXHIBITION SEASON: 10 OCTOBER - 29 NOVEMBER 2026The Lester Prize is one of Australia’s most prestigious portraiture awards—an annual celebration of artists and their communities, giving them the recognition they deserve.
Established in 2007 (originally as the Black Swan Prize), it provides a major platform for Australian portraitists to showcase their work in Western Australia.
Now in its 19th year, The Lester Prize has grown to become Australia’s largest national art prize by total prize money, with more than $135,000 awarded across two awards (Main and Youth), and multiple categories. In keeping with its ethos of “art accessible for all”, the Judging Panel—made up of independent experts—has chosen works from both established and emerging artists nationwide.
Executive Director Shannon Yujnovich anticipates record attendance this year, while Director Russell Lester affirms the team’s commitment to championing Australian talent and creativity.
The Main Awards are open to all Australian residents aged 18 and over, with seven prize categories including:
The Richard Lester Prize for Portraiture | $50,000 cash
Tony Fini Foundation Artist Prize | $20,000 cash
Baldock Family People’s Choice Prize | $15,000 cash
Minderoo Foundation Spirit Prize | $20,000 cash
Barton Family Foundation Installers’ Prize | $10,000 cash
Ashurst Emerging Artist Prize | $10,000 cash
Eyewall Foundation Highly Commended | up to $5,000 value
The Montauk Lighting Co. Highly Commended | up to $5,000 value
All are welcome to view the finalists’ artworks - some of which are for sale.
More details here https://www.lesterprize.com/about-us/about-us-background/
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Where is it happening?
WA Museum Boola Bardip, 2 Roe St, Perth WA 6000, Australia, PerthEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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