2026 Visual Arts Fellowship (Emerging)

Administered by Create NSW, the Visual Arts Fellowship (Emerging) program is delivered with the curatorial and exhibition support of Artspace. The objective is to support NSW visual arts practitioners in the early stages of their career to challenge and expand their practice.

Up to 6 applicants will be shortlisted to take part in the fellowship exhibition at Artspace, Sydney in May 2026. At the exhibition opening, the fellowship of $30,000 will be awarded to 1 successful emerging visual artist to undertake a self-directed professional development program. This program could include research, travel, studio residencies, creation of new work, mentorships and other activities that align with the recipient’s practice and career progression.

Shortlisted artists will receive an artist fee to participate in the exhibition and may be asked by Artspace to participate in artist talks, other public programs, meetings with visiting curators, and media interviews to produce greater visibility for their practice. The shortlisted artists will be interviewed prior to the opening of the exhibition, as part of the assessment process to determine the fellowship recipient.

Closely review the 2026 Visual Arts Fellowship (Emerging) website to find out more, including if you are eligible.

All applications must be submitted via SmartyGrants.

Support and contact

Create NSW staff are available to provide general information on the interpretation of these guidelines and support with the online application process. 

• Email: arts.funding@create.nsw.gov.au

• Phone: (02) 9228 4578

• Scheduling an online meeting to speak to the Arts Funding and Development team using the link to Microsoft Bookings