M16 Artspace Drawing Prize 2026

The M16 Artspace Drawing Prize 2026, supported by The Tall Foundation, is an annual national competition that celebrates contemporary drawing practice in Australia. Open to all Australian artists over 18, the prize accepts works created between 2024 and 2026 in any drawing medium, including experimental formats, provided they are unframed and unmounted. Artists may submit up to three entries, with a tiered entry fee of $45 for the first work, $40 for the second, and $35 for the third; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and Pension Concession Card holders are exempt. The competition offers a $10,000 main prize, a $1,000 Highly Commended prize, a $2,000 First Nations Artist Award, a local artist residency award, and several material vouchers. Selected works will be exhibited at M16 Artspace in Griffith, ACT from 21 November to 13 December 2026, with awards announced on 21 November. The call also includes a Young Drawers Prize for emerging artists. Applications close at 11:59 pm on Sunday 11 October 2026 (extended deadline).

Exhibition at M16 Artspace (Griffith ACT), sales facilitation (30 % commission), plinths for sculptural works, video/sound presentation systems, residency and studio membership (Megalo Print Studio award).

Open to artists across Australia. Works must be unframed and unmounted. Works must have been completed between 2024 and 2026. Artworks must be available for display at M16 Artspace from 15-17 December 2026.