Ipswich Art Awards

Formally established in 2000, the Ipswich Art Awards have become one of the region’s most respected annual celebrations of visual creativity. Created to showcase the work of local and emerging artists, the Awards have grown over twenty-five years to attract entries from across Queensland and beyond.

Founded by local artist Wayne McDonnell, the Awards were established to encourage participation in the arts, foster appreciation of diverse art forms and highlight the important role creativity plays in civic life. The inaugural exhibition filled a much-needed gap by providing artists with the opportunity to exhibit and sell their work, reach new audiences and connect with fellow creators. Initially featuring categories in painting, drawing and photography, the Awards have since expanded to include sculpture, digital and new media, while maintaining a strong connection to community and place.

Now coordinated by Ipswich City Council, the Ipswich Art Awards continue to celebrate artistic excellence and innovation. Each year, hundreds of artworks are exhibited and available for sale, reflecting the evolving story of Ipswich’s creative community and its enduring contribution to the city’s cultural identity.