2026 GAP

The 2026 Grassland Art Prize brought together an outstanding collection of artworks at the Grassland Art Gallery in Tambo, with artists responding to this year’s theme, Changing Perspectives. With more than 30 entries received from Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, the exhibition highlighted the depth of creativity, skill and imagination within the contemporary regional arts community.

Visitors to the opening event enjoyed a warm community gathering and the opportunity to view a diverse range of works that explored the theme in varied and thoughtful ways—from subtle shifts in viewpoint to bold conceptual interpretations.

Judge Trudie Leigo reflected on the difficulty of selecting winners from such a strong field.

“It was not an easy decision to choose the winners today,” she said.

“I would like to commend all the artists who created work for this year’s prize. To make art and put it out into the world takes skill, creativity and courage. Congratulations to all of you for doing something that most people will never do.”

She also noted that while awards are important, the value of participation extends far beyond prizes.

“While it’s always nice to have a win, there is much more that comes from participating than prize money. You get to receive feedback, connect with new audiences, build your experience and your confidence, and you also get to support a great community organisation.”

The 2026 Grassland Art Prize winners were announced as follows:

First Prize was awarded to Ainslie McMahon from Rockhampton for Flying Free, a compelling work that drew the judge back repeatedly. With its striking palette and dynamic mark-making, the piece transforms depending on perspective—revealing both expressive, sketch-like energy up close and strong compositional balance from a distance. It is a work that invites questions and lingers in the mind.

Second Prize went to Carmen Beezley Drake from Rockhampton for Memories of Stirling Downs, an evocative painting that balances familiarity with dreamlike atmosphere. The work demonstrates how shifting perspective can transform meaning, evoking nostalgia while also introducing a subtle sense of the surreal.

Third Prize was awarded to Jill Taylor from Blackall for On The Other Half of the World, a visually engaging and multi-layered work that responds thoughtfully to the theme. Its originality and interpretive depth invite contemplation, revealing new meaning the longer it is considered.

The Grassland Art Prize continues to provide a valuable platform for artists to exhibit their work, connect with audiences, and contribute to the cultural life of the region. The Tambo Arts Council thanks all artists, sponsors, volunteers and visitors who helped make the 2026 event a success.