Apply Now: 2026 NSW Visual Arts Fellowship (Emerging)

Artspace and Create NSW are pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 NSW Visual Arts Fellowship (Emerging). 

The 2026 NSW VAF(E) program will provide six shortlisted artists the opportunity to develop works for an exhibition presented at Artspace in July 2026. On the opening night, one finalist will receive a $30,000 fellowship from the NSW Government to pursue a self-directed program of professional development, which can include travel, mentorships, internships, courses, research and the creation of new work.

VAF(E) is Artspace’s key exhibition for profiling the dynamism and breadth of emerging contemporary artistic practice in NSW, and builds upon our ongoing commitment to supporting emerging artists through curatorial development and dialogue.

Previous recipients of the Fellowship include Ali Tahayori (2025), Gillian Kayrooz (2024), Morgan Hogg (2023), Eddie Abd (2022), Dennis Golding (2020), Shivanjani Lal (2019), EO Gill (2018), Claudia, Nicholson (2017), Consuelo Cavaniglia (2016), Heath Franco (2015), Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran (2014), Jamie North (2013), Soda Jerk (2011), Khaled Sabsabi (2010), Diego Bonetto (2008) and Tony Schwenson (1988). 

Applications close Tuesday 7 October 2025, 5pm (AEST)

Apply here