Entries open for Y youth exhibition

THE Y Ballarat’s annual Youth Art Exhibition is happening earlier this year with young creatives now encouraged to register and submit work by 27 March ahead of the April show.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for young creatives to gain real-life experience in displaying and exhibiting their work in a professional setting,” said Lilia Haughie, exhibition organiser with the Y’s youth team,

“It gives artists the chance to see their work presented publicly and earn money by selling their art.

“Experiences like this are invaluable for building confidence and understanding what it’s like to be part of an exhibition.”

Now in its sixth year, the exhibition will be held over 17-29 April in Barkly Square with an opening night set for 17 April in The Y Ballarat’s atrium.

The announcement of The Artist’s Choice Award and the Y’s Choice Award will be made on the opening night, with prizemoney going to each winning artist.

Everyone is welcome to attend the opening and exhibition and visitors can vote on their favourite piece for the People’s Choice Award that will be presented at the show’s end.

Last year, 52 young artists took part, with 73 individual works showcased.

Among those who exhibited last year, Letitia Yates won the 2025 Y’s Choice Award with her work Diverse Dolls.

“Some of the best parts of having my art in the exhibition is being able to show people my art and my identity,” she said.

People aged 12 to 25 are encouraged to submit work across a wide range of media with more details and registrations at yballarat.org.au/youth-art-exhibition.