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Submit an outstanding contemporary small sculpture for consideration in an annual juried competition and exhibition.
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Get matched →Established in 2009, the Deakin University Contemporary Small Sculpture Award is presented by the Art Collection and Galleries Unit at Deakin University. It celebrates contemporary sculpture by artists from across Australia and culminates in an annual exhibition of shortlisted works. Each year, a rotating panel of judges selects around 40 finalists from submissions. In 2026, the award will introduce an inaugural Emerging Sculptors Award, expanding its support for early career artists.
The finalists' exhibition runs for 6 to 8 weeks at the Deakin University Art Gallery on the Melbourne Burwood campus. At the conclusion of the exhibition, visitors vote to determine the People's Choice Award recipient.
The panel determines the Acquisitive First Prize supported by Michael and Emily Tong, and a Highly Commended award supported by UniSuper. The winning work is acquired into the Deakin University Art Collection.
Each year the judging panel consists of the Senior Manager, Art Collection and Galleries, Deakin University, and two arts industry representatives. The 2026 judges are Amy Barclay (Curator), Kent Morris (Barkindji artist and curator), and Leanne Willis (Senior Manager, Art Collection and Galleries Deakin University).
Every listing links to the organizer's official page. Always confirm deadlines, fees, and entry rules there before you apply.