Chance to shine for emerging artists

For art’s sake: Mayor Cr Thomas Prince said the awards are a wonderful way for young creatives to express their ideas, experiences and stories through art, and to share their work with the wider community. Photo: FILE

YOUNG Greater Bendigo creatives are being encouraged to enter the City funded 2026 RAW Arts Awards.

The long-running awards program celebrates artists, writers, performers and filmmakers aged 25 and under who live, work or study primarily in the region.

First held in 1997, it has served to highlight the City’s commitment to nurturing emerging creative talent.

The 2026 program features four categories – Visual Arts, Literature, Performing Arts and Short Film – with winners to receive $1500 and highly commended entrants awarded $500.

City of Greater Bendigo mayor Cr Thomas Prince said RAW Arts continues to provide an important platform for young people to share their work with the public.

“RAW (Arts) is a wonderful way for young creatives to express their ideas, experiences and stories through art, and to share their work with the wider community,” he said.

“It is always inspiring to see how creativity is growing across Greater Bendigo.

“Many RAW participants have gone on to build successful careers in the creative industries which is fantastic.”

Entries for the Short Film, Literature and Performing Arts close on Monday 4 May, while Visual Arts entries must be delivered to Dudley House on Tuesday 2 June.

The Awards showcase will be held on Thursday 4 June from 6pm at The Capital.

Guidelines and application details are available via the Bendigo Region website.

Anyone entering RAW is encouraged to discuss their application with the City’s Arts Officer by emailing [email protected] or calling 5434 6478.