Young artists invited to find inspiration in the wild
Entries are open for the Wild HeART Student Art Prize
Ponder on petals, gaze upon a goshawk and mull over mycelium. That's the challenge being issued to young artists as entries open for the Wild HeART Student Art Prize.
The annual prize invites young people aged 5 to 18 to connect with nature and transform that experience into original artwork inspired by Australia's native plants, animals and fungi.
Last year's finalists showcased a diverse range of native species and habitats, demonstrating the creativity and environmental awareness of young artists across the Sunshine Coast and neighbouring regions.
Sunshine Coast Environment Portfolio Councillor Maria Suarez said the Sunshine Coast and its neighbouring areas were abundant in native wild flora, fauna and fungi.
“The Wild HeART Student Art Prize encourages young artists to find a native species or natural subject that inspires them, connect deeply with it and share that experience through their art,” Cr Suarez said.
"As a UNESCO Biosphere, our region is defined by the relationship between people and nature.
“Taking the time to focus on just one element of the natural world can spark curiosity, appreciation and care.
“If you have a young artist at home who loves nature, encourage them to head out, choose a subject they love, then enter their 2-D, original artwork into the prize.”
Submissions close on 5 October, with finalist works displayed in an outdoor exhibition trail at the Maroochy Bushland Botanic Garden in Tanawha.
Sunshine Coast Councillor Maria Suarez went on to say that equal weight was given to the story behind the artwork, making it important to take time for inspiration to strike.
"There is no limit to where artists can find inspiration – it might be a local park, school grounds or somewhere discovered during a family adventure," Cr Suarez said.
"The main rules are that the subject must be a native species, and your artwork must be original!
“For those considering studying art at a higher level or taking the next step, this is a great opportunity to become an exhibiting artist.
“The art prize is free to enter and open to any student enrolled in Prep to Year 12, aged 5-18, from the Sunshine Coast and neighbouring local government areas.”
There are three age categories, with finalists earning the opportunity to exhibit their work at the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden this summer.
Wild HeART Student Art Prize at a glance
The Wild HeART Student Art Prize is open to school aged children and young people, 18 years and under, enrolled in Prep to Year 12.
Open to entrants in these local government areas: Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, Noosa Shire, Gympie or Somerset.
Free to enter.
Categories
- 8yrs and under
- 13yrs and under
- 18yrs and under
Key dates
- Entries close, 5 October 2026
- Finalists announced, 27 November 2026
- Finalists' exhibition trail, December 2026-January 2027