Council and community unite for 25th Ipswich Art Awards
18 July 2025
The much-loved Ipswich Art Awards are marking a significant milestone this year, celebrating a quarter-century of artistic excellence.
Ipswich City Council Economic and Cultural Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said the Ipswich Art Awards have been an important highlight on the creative community’s calendar for the last 25 years.
“This year’s awards will be more special than ever as we reflect on the extraordinary growth the awards have seen over the years,” Cr Augustine said.
“Since 2000, we’ve seen stunning works of art submitted; the awards have gone from strength to strength attracting artists from near and far.
“All artwork entered is displayed in the exhibition and available for purchase providing artists opportunities to build their profile and connect with new audiences.
“This year, we have an amazing team of volunteers who are getting involved and helping with the organisation of the event led by Ipswich Arts Advisory Group members Wayne McDonnell and Kate Roberts. Thank you to each volunteer – your contribution makes a difference.
“I’m incredibly proud of the arts scene we have here in Ipswich - we have one of the most-well attended regional art galleries in Australia, emerging artists have opportunities to secure exhibition space at the Ipswich Community Gallery and the Ipswich Art Workshop has become a new hub for the development of local artists.
“The Ipswich Art Awards are a celebration of the thriving arts community and the success we’ve seen over the last quarter-century.
“All artists are invited to participate in this wonderful milestone, whether you’re an emerging artist or an established creative.
“Guidelines have now been published, and I encourage all artists to review the work they have completed over the past 12 months and select up to two pieces for entry.”
This year’s categories are:
- Painting: Acrylic
- Painting: Oil
- Painting: Watercolour
- Drawing and Pastels
- Three Dimensions
- Photography
- Print Making (not digital)
- Mixed Media
- New Media (digital not printed)
“Winners in each category plus the People’s Choice Award winner will take home $1,500 in prize money and the Best of Show winner will receive $3,000,” Cr Augustine said.
“Council is committed to supporting artists throughout the process and will be holding ARTiculate sessions throughout the month.
“Drop-in sessions will be held on Thursday 28 and Saturday 30 August from 9am to 11am where you can ask any questions, have a photo of your artwork taken and get assistance with your form. These sessions will help artists submit strong applications.”
Entries open on 1 August and close at 6pm on 31 August 2025.
Opening night of the exhibition will be held on Saturday 8 November at 6pm, where winners will be announced. The People’s Choice winner will be announced following the exhibition.
For full details on the 2025 awards and to register for a workshop, visit www.shapeyouripswich.com.au/ipswich-art-awards
Ipswich City Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners, the Jagera, Yuggera and Ugarapul people of the Yugara/Yagara Language Group, as custodians of the land and waters we share. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, as the keepers of the traditions, customs, cultures and stories of proud peoples.