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 is now closed.

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

• be enrolled in a visual or fine arts course at TAFE NSW in the Hunter or Central Coast regions
• submit a digital image of your artwork (you can submit up to two pieces)
• not have received another award, scholarship, or prize from the Hunter TAFE Foundation in the last 12 months
• accept the terms and conditions outlined in the Reg Russom Memorial Drawing Prize

When submitting your entry, you must:

• complete the online application form and upload up to two digital copies of your artwork by 9 am, Thursday 30 July
• ensure your application is submitted on time for review on Friday 31 July (shortlisted applicants will be notified to supply one physical piece of artwork for exhibition and judging)
• deliver your shortlisted artwork to the Customer Service desk in the ground floor foyer at TAFE NSW Newcastle (Hunter Street), 590–608 Hunter Street, Newcastle West, by 12 pm, Friday 7 August

• the winner will be announced at 12 pm, Tuesday 11 August 2026 at:
  • Newcastle Art School
  • TAFE NSW Newcastle (Hunter Street)
  • 590–608 Hunter Street, Newcastle West
• selected entries will be showcased at the TAFE NSW Newcastle (Hunter Street) gallery from 11–28 August 2026
• due to limited hanging space for the 2026 exhibition, judges will select a curated group of inspiring works for physical display
• the winning artwork will become the property of the Hunter TAFE Foundation
• the judges’ decision is final and no further discussion will be entered into

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.