Apply now for the Reg Russom Memorial Drawing Prize

The Reg Russom Memorial Drawing Prize was first awarded in 1955 to honour one of the early Head Teachers of the Newcastle Art School, Reg Russom. Visual and Fine Arts students enrolled at TAFE NSW in the Hunter and Central Coast regions are invited to submit an observational drawing for entry in the Prize of $1,000 to the successful applicant.

Arts National Newcastle have partnered with the Hunter TAFE Foundation to become the new donor of the Reg Russom Memorial Drawing Prize, as part of their commitment to cultural activities and connecting people with the arts.

Applications for the Reg Russom Memorial Drawing Prize close at 9 am (AEST), Thursday 30 July 2026.

To be eligible for the Reg Russom Memorial Drawing Prize, you must:

• Be enrolled in Visual or Fine Arts at TAFE NSW in the Hunter or Central Coast regions.
• Applicant must provide a digital image of their artwork as part of their submission.
• Up to two (2) pieces of artwork can be submitted.
• Not be in receipt of another award, scholarship or prize presented by the Hunter TAFE Foundation within the last twelve (12) months.
• Applicant must accept Terms and Conditions outlined in the Reg Russom Memorial Drawing Prize.

Please keep in mind the following when entering your work:

• Complete the online application form and upload up to 2 digital copies of your artwork by 9 am, Thursday 30 July.
• Completed applications will then be reviewed on Friday, 31 July and applicants notified to deliver one piece of artwork for exhibition/judging.
• If shortlisted, please deliver your artwork to the customer service desk in the ground floor foyer at our TAFE NSW Hunter Street, (590-608 Hunter Street, Newcastle West) by 12 pm, Friday 7 August.

• The judges' decision is final, and we are unable to enter into any further discussion.

• The winning artwork will become the property of the Hunter TAFE Foundation.

• The winner will be announced at 12 pm, Tuesday 11 August 2026 at:

  Newcastle Art School
  TAFE NSW Hunter Street
  590 - 608 Hunter Street
  Newcastle West

• Because hanging space for the 2026 exhibition is limited, judges will select a curated group of inspiring works for physical display.

• Selected entries will be showcased at the TAFE NSW Hunter Street gallery from 11-28 August 2026.

Have a question about the scholarship? Email us at hunter.foundation@tafensw.edu.au

Every year, TAFE NSW awards hundreds of scholarships and study grants.

To find the one that is right for you, visit the TAFE NSW Scholarships homepage.