A New Initiative from the Royal Queensland Art Society

RQAS Biennial comprises three feature competitions:

RQAS Members Annual Exhibition (from 16th August) is a long-standing event on the RQAS calendar and this year will have $5000 prize money on offer along with a market day with morning tea and live music.

Queensland Figurative 2016 (from 6th September) is an open competition calling for artists to create works that have the human figure as an integral part of the composition. A huge success in 2014, attracting more than 150 entries which were judged by Archibald-winner Wendy Sharpe. Total prize money for this year’s event is $11,500.

Young Artist Award (from 27th September) is an all new initiative and one of the most important cultural investments by RQAS in its 126-year history. Promoting engagement with schools and art colleges, this open competition for artists aged 17 to 30 offers an exhibition platform and $2000 prize money for Queensland’s emerging fine art champions. Young artists are invited to submit a two-dimensional artwork of a subject observed from life.

“The Biennial will be held at the Petrie Terrace Gallery, the home of RQAS, and promises to be a high-profile and exciting addition to the Queensland artists’ calendar,” says RQAS Brisbane president John Dunne. “The all-new Young Artist Award represents Royal Queensland Art Society’s commitment to encouraging and supporting young people who want a career in fine art.”

The RQAS Biennial, beginning 16th August, will include workshops, demonstrations of fine art skills and discussion forums. There will be gala opening nights, morning teas and live music