Established in 1958, the Muswellbrook Art Prize is a now $70,000 acquisitive award spanning three categories: painting, works on paper, and ceramics. With medium as the sole thematic focus, the Prize showcases the diverse subjects and practices of contemporary artists working throughout Australia.

Astute adjudication of the Prize has yielded an impressive collection of modern and contemporary Australian art. Highlighting the Post War period of the 20th Century and into the 21st Century, these works form the foundation of the Muswellbrook Shire Art Collection.

Along with Muswellbrook Shire Council, who since 1958 has acted as sponsor and administrator of the Muswellbrook Art Prize, Bengalla Mining Company has generously sponsored the Prize for over 30 years, their commitment ensuring the development of the Muswellbrook Shire Art Collection.

Thank you to adjudicator of the 2026 Muswellbrook Art Prize, Scott Elliott, Assistant Curator of Australian Art, Art Gallery of NSW along with selection panel members, ceramicist Simon Reece, artist and creative producer Suzannah Jones, and Elissa Emerson, Director of the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre.

A special thank you to all Prize Finalist of the 2026 Muswellbrook Art Prize.