Dobell Exhibition Grant - MGNSW

Overview

The Dobell Exhibition Grant program provides financial assistance towards the development of new, curated exhibitions of visual arts at regional galleries and cultural centres in New South Wales. The program aims to support high quality exhibitions that speak to a broad audience across NSW with innovative public and education programs that creatively engage both artists and the community.

Key dates

• Submissions open: 13 July 2026
• Closing date: Tuesday 13 October 2026, 5:00 pm
• Project must commence after: 1 February 2027
• Project must conclude by: 31 December 2028

Funding

• Amount available: One grant of $40,000 (exc. GST)
• Eligible uses: artist/curator fees, commissioning fees, education and public program development, photography/design/printing, writer fees, framing/packing/crating, technology/equipment purchase, research costs (max 10% of grant), marketing and promotion
• Ineligible uses: existing staff fees, art prizes/awards, permanent displays

Eligibility

• Applicants with outstanding acquittals from other M&G NSW grants are not eligible
• Only one application per round per applicant

Selection criteria

Applications will be assessed on artistic merit and quality (work is thought-provoking and of high quality, strong curatorial framework, calibre of artists and curators), audience engagement (potential to capture public interest and expand diverse audiences, opportunity for ambitious and innovative public programs), and viability (well-planned with clear strategies, gallery meets professional standards, budget is realistic and accurate).

How to apply

Submit using the online application form and budget form available from the program website. Contact Vanessa James ([email protected]) or Susan Wacher ([email protected]) for more information or to discuss your application.

After award

Successful applicants must submit an acquittal report within one month of project completion. All marketing and publicity must acknowledge the financial assistance of M&G NSW and the Sir William Dobell Art Foundation using provided logos and credit line. Funds will not be available until grant agreements and valid invoices are completed and returned.