The Lester Prize for Portraiture 2026 Main Awards
Discover the remarkable diversity of contemporary Australian portraiture from established and emerging artists at The Lester Prize for Portraiture 2026 Main Awards at WA Museum Boola Bardip.
When:
–
–
Location:
WA Museum Boola Bardip, Perth Cultural Centre
William Street & Francis Street, Northbridge, 6003
Tickets:
Free
Overview
Selected from a record-breaking 1,177 entries, the exhibition brings together 40 finalist artists from across Australia, each offering a distinctive interpretation of portraiture, identity and the human experience. From intimate studies and deeply personal encounters to bold, experimental and thought-provoking works, the exhibition reveals the many ways artists can capture a person, their story and their place in the world.
With a prize pool of more than $140,000, The Lester Prize is one of Australia's most significant national portrait prizes, providing artists with a prestigious platform to have their work seen by audiences across the country.
The Lester Prize thanks the City of Perth, The Lester Group, WA Museum Boola Bardip, and all sponsors for their support.
With a prize pool of more than $140,000, The Lester Prize is one of Australia's most significant national portrait prizes, providing artists with a prestigious platform to have their work seen by audiences across the country.
The Lester Prize thanks the City of Perth, The Lester Group, WA Museum Boola Bardip, and all sponsors for their support.
- Northbridge