Emerging Artist Award

Applications are open for Melbourne Festival's Emerging Artist Award 2026. Theme: HUMANITY, NATURE & CREATIVITY Applicants must be living, studying or working in the East Midlands and aged between 17 & 25, or within three years of graduating. PRIZES: The winner will receive £500, artist mentoring and a space on the 2027 Melbourne Festival Trail £250 prize for the runner-up People's Choice Award Commended Artworks HOW TO APPLY: E-mail your proposal with your idea, the inspiration and the medium you will be using, along with three images of your recent work, your contact details and age. FREE TO APPLY! DEADLINES: Deadline is 31 April 2026. Shortlisted artists will be notified by 22 May 2026. Work must be completed by 8 July 2026. Judging takes place on 17 September 2026. The awards presentation takes place on Saturday 19 September 2026, and shortlisted artists are expected to attend.