2026 Start Art Prize Winners

Selected by feature artist Gemma Rose Brook

Congratulations to all the Start artists for entering the 2026 Start Art Prize. Here is the list of winners selected by South Australian feature artist Gemma Rose Brook, and announced by Emma Fey, Deputy Director.

Artists Under 3

Camille West, Baker Boy

I love Baker Boy

Artists aged 3-5

Catie Ruan, My Happy Flower Garden

I painted colourful flowers because they make me happy. I hope everyone smiles when they see my beautiful garden.

Ariane Leng, Chalk Pastel, 14.5cm x 20.8cm

"The sea of the light and the brilliant coral reef of the cat, and it was so beautiful."

Artists aged 6-8

Zola Toop, Midnight Owl

Owl in an autumn tree at night by the mountains. Using pens, pencils, watercolours and posca markers

Lewis Ruan, The Curious Giant Squid

I painted a giant squid swimming gracefully through deep waters, celebrating mysterious ocean life, amazing creatures, and underwater exploration together.

Artists aged 9-10

Imogen Zaina, My friend Ruby

When walking across WOMADelaide gardens I was thinking of Ruby and how she would have loved to be here with us.

Charlotte Lambe, The Bunny Hole

A 3D drawing with different shades of black and white, inspired by the rabbit hole from Alice in Wonderland.

Artists aged 11-12

Sachin Hiriyanna, Sunset Harmony

As I watch the sunset, it makes me think that one day everyone can live in harmony, like the colours of the sunset.
Acrylic on canvas, 40x30cm, 2026

Richard Wang, Together Forever

I painted my family watching the beautiful city together. I feel safe and happy when we are together.