Craigs Aspiring Art Prize 2027

The Craigs Aspiring Art Prize is an annual art competition and exhibition held in Wanaka, open to New Zealand citizens and permanent residents aged 18 and over. The supreme prize is a $20,000 acquisition award from Craigs Investment Partners — meaning the winning artwork becomes part of their collection.

Accepted works are original, two-dimensional pieces including painting, drawing, artist prints, and mixed media. Photographs, digital artwork, and sculpture are not eligible. Importantly, submitted works must be previously unexhibited — not shown publicly in any gallery, competition, online space, or social media in their final form.

Up to 150 works will be selected and displayed following an independent judging panel review in November 2026. All accepted works must be offered for sale, with a 28% commission deducted on any sales. Most sold works are priced under $5,000.

Works must fit within 1200mm x 1200mm and be professionally presented with D-rings and hanging cord or wire. Delivery to Holy Family School, 152 Aubrey Road, Wanaka is required in early January 2027, with hand delivery on 4 January and courier delivery on 5 January. Early courier arrivals can be arranged for 9–11 December 2026.

The entry fee is $30 (plus booking fee) and is non-refundable. One entry per artist. Applications close Saturday, 1 November 2026 at 5pm via the online form.

For queries, contact aspiringartprize@gmail.com.