The Visual Arts Fellowship (Emerging) (VAFE) 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 July 2027. At the exhibition opening, the fellowship of $30,000 will be awarded to 1 shortlisted 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.
The 6 shortlisted artists will receive 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.
Applications close: 14 September 2026 at 2pm.
2027 Visual Arts Fellowship (Emerging) | NSW Government
Image: (Left to right) Sue Jo Wright, Virginia Keft, Tia Madden, Amelia Skelton, Charles Levi, and collaborative duo Natasha Dubler and Caitlin Dubler. Credit: Daniel Boud, 2026