Finalists are in for the 2026 Woollahra Small Sculpture Prize

Celebrating its 25th anniversary the Woollahra Small Sculpture Prize has announced their 2026 finalists. The entries are not limited to a specific category but instead celebrated for their unique forms. The only requirement is that the sculpture must be no larger than 80cm in any dimension. Presented by the Woollahra Council, and hosted at the Woollahra Art Gallery, the annual prize has become a dedicated fixture awaited by visitors each year.

The judging panel were tasked with the challenge of selecting 49 finalists from a field of 724 national and international entries. This year’s judges consisted of Beau Neilson (Arts Leader and Philanthropist), Tim Silver (Artist and winner of the 2018 Woollahra Small Sculpture Prize), and Emily Sullivan (Curator of Contemporary International Art, AGNSW). The prize reached international acclaim with entries being received from Ireland and the United States.

The Woollahra Gallery Director Sep Pourbozorgi, states; “Some works explore history, industry and the expressive potential of materials themselves, while others emerge from failed experiments, successful prototypes and the pursuit of new artistic directions. The result is an exhibition that captures the richness, originality and innovation of contemporary sculpture.”

The winner will be presented with $25,000 and their sculpture will be acquired into the Woollahra Council’s permanent collection. Additionally a Special Commendation Award, Mayor’s Award and the Viewers Choice Award will be selected.

The calibre of work amongst this year’s finalists is remarkable, including artists such as Lynda Draper (JET), Melanie Cobham (Unfolded Trees), BJ Kim (do Geese see God?), and Tricia Singer (Peacock).

To celebrate the 25th anniversary, a Super Small Sculpture Prize comprising primary-aged artists is being launched for the very first time. This new prize celebrates a selection of innovative works from young sculptors, inviting them to create a sculpture no larger than 15cm in any dimension and will be exhibited alongside the Woollahra Small Sculpture Prize.

The exhibition will be on display at Woollahra Gallery from 2 October – 29 November. The winners will be announced on Thursday 1 October. Entry is free.

Image (left to right): BJ Kim (do Geese see God?), Lynda Draper (JET), Bryant Chitsey (Thunderstorm), Melanie Cobham (Unfolded Trees), Tricia Singer (Peacock).