Basil Sellers Art Prize
The Basil Sellers Art Prize is an acquisitive biennial award celebrating artistic excellence, with a prize pool of over $55,000.
The Prize focuses on 2D artworks in traditional media - painting, drawing and printmaking (unique state). Finalists are considered for the $50,000 acquisitive award, generously supported by Mr Basil Sellers AM, alongside the Eurobodalla Award of $5,000, which recognises an outstanding local entry.
Since the Prize was established in 2004, listening closely to artists has shaped how we work. We are recognised for an artist-first ethos that comes from understanding the cumulative challenges involved in entering art prizes - from financial outlay and administrative load to professional vulnerability. The Basil Sellers Art Prize reflects this ethos through a structure grounded in care, accessibility and generosity, with a strong focus on actively removing barriers to entry.
As a regional gallery, we acknowledge that exceptional art knows no boundaries. We welcome entries from artists across Australia, from diverse backgrounds and regions, and at all stages of their careers.
Artists are at the heart of everything we do, and whether you are an emerging practitioner or well established, we are genuinely excited to see the work you choose to submit.
Save the dates
- Call for entries: Monday 1 June to midnight Friday 11 September 2026
- Finalists announced: Friday 16 October 2026
- Opening and winners' announcement: Friday 4 December 2026, from 5.30pm
- Exhibition: Saturday 5 December 2026 to Saturday 30 January 2027.
Full terms and conditions will be available on the website from 1 June 2026.
History of the Prize
The Basil Sellers Art Prize was founded in 2004 by businessman, philanthropist and art collector Mr Basil Sellers AM. Through a chance connection to Moruya, Mr Sellers developed a long and enduring partnership with Eurobodalla Shire Council, supporting the region’s artistic community in a meaningful and sustained way.
A new category sponsored by Eurobodalla Shire Council was introduced in 2018: the Eurobodalla Award. Valued at $5,000, this award recognises an outstanding local entry, with the winning artwork acquired into Council’s permanent collection.
In 2024 Mr Sellers announced that the major acquisitive award would be doubled to $50,000, significantly strengthening the Prize’s impact and providing an extraordinary opportunity for artists working in 2D traditional media.
Past winners, virtual exhibitions and exhibition catalogues
