Important dates are:

1 August 2026 Entries open

19 February 2027 Entries close

26 February 2027 notification of acceptance

25 March - 11 April 2027 exhibition dates

Gala opening 25  March 6-8 pm

 Artists residing in Australia are invited to submit their works based on the following criteria:

 •   Portraits are to be executed as framed works on paper or canvass/board (non photographic - non digital).

•   Entries will represent work completed within the last 12 mths.

•   Size of entries not to exceed 1 metre x 1 metre.

•   Portraits are to represent peoples who live/have lived in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales (historic or present).

The BCA Application form is HERE. This form is to accompany all entries together with digital files of your entry and payment of a $30.00 processing fee. Entries accepted from 1 August 2026 to 19 February, 2027.

Files are to be supplied as jpeg digital images photographed at 300dpi sent to bundanoon.portraitprize@bca.asn.au

A short explanation/description of the work submitted will reflect:

•   who the subject is,

•   why this person was chosen and any other significant information. (Maximum 250 words)

Entry details:

Entries will be accepted from 1 August 2026. Entries close on 19 February, 2027.

Artists will be notified by 26 February 2027 if their entry has been accepted for exhibit.

•    Delivery of framed work to CWA Rooms, Railway Parade, Bundanoon by  21-22 March 2027.

•    Size of works are limited to 1m x 1m

•    All work must be labelled with artists’ name, portrait name and price if for sale.

•    There is a commission of 15% on sold work.

•    Exhibition will be held from 25 March - 11 April  2027.

•    Opening night will be held on 25 March with a gala celebration, music and guest speaker. Prize for the Winning Portrait is $4000.00. And for Aspiring Artist (under 18yrs) $500.00.

•    People’s Choice will be announced on the 11th April 2027. Return of works will be on 11-12 April 2027. Artists are responsible to pick up any unsold works or to make arrangements with Arts Bundanoon.

On opening night awards will be announced: 

First Place $4000.00, and Aspiring Artist (under 18 yrs) $500.00.

People’s Choice award will be advised at the end of the exhibition.