The next generation of East Gippsland’s creative talent took centre stage this week at the 2025 Youth Art Prize Awards, held at the Forge Theatre and Arts Hub in Bairnsdale where the winners were announced.
Presented by East Gippsland Shire Council, the annual Youth Art Prize celebrates and empowers young artists aged 12 to 25 from across the region.
This year’s event drew an incredible range of entries from painting and photography to sculpture and digital design which all reflected the unique voices, stories and perspectives of East Gippsland’s young people.
Cr Bernie Farquhar, who attended the opening alongside East Gippsland Shire Council’s General Manager Assets and Environment, Stuart McConnell, and Youth Ambassadors, Banjo Jackson and Amber Mazon said the Youth Art Prize is a wonderful celebration of imagination, creativity and talent.
“We celebrate the remarkable talent of our youth. Each piece on display reflects passion, persistence, and a unique perspective. To all entrants, whether you won a prize or not, your creativity matters. You are the next generation of storytellers, thinkers, and makers, and your voices make a difference,” Cr Farquhar said.
The awards night brought together young artists, their families and friends, teachers, community members, and arts supporters to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the finalists.
The 2025 Youth Art Prize Exhibition remains open to the public at the Forge Theatre until Sunday, October 26, offering the community a chance to view the creativity and talent of East Gippsland’s young artists in a professional gallery setting.
The Youth Art Prize provides more than recognition, it offers a platform for young people to explore ideas, build confidence, and contribute to the cultural life of the region.
Winner of the 16 – 20 years 2D category and Judges Award, Leah Brutovic from Paynesville, said the Youth Art Prize has been a big part of her creative journey, having entered for the past three years.
“For me personally it provides a connection for me into my community, it’s nice to come here and see people I know,” Leah said.
Now living in Melbourne but returning often, Leah added “If it was not for the Youth Art Prize I do not think I would have displayed my art anywhere, it’s a great confidence building program”.
Leah’s advice for those thinking of entering next year: “Just apply, it’s a good learning process. My artwork has really changed since I first entered, and this win feels like a measure of that success.”
This year’s exhibition displayed a high standard of art across various categories; age group winners are listed below:
20 – 25 years
2D: Jessika Arnold – Cercopia Moth
Digital Media/ Photography: Imhran Canary – A golden pair
Special Mention: Eliza Moore – Give thanks for the day that was (Digital Media/ Photography)
Asha Andrews – I’m not different, am I (Digital Media / Photography)
16 – 20 years
2D and Judge’s Choice: Leah Brutovic – First Impressions
3D: Daniella Moss – Hidden Spaces
Digital Media/ Photography: Holly Love – A Night Off
12 – 15 years
2D: Ella Jansen – The Cellist
3D: Jack Peterson – Disco Ball Shark
Digital Media/ Photography: Olli Peevers – Reflection
Special Mention: Lily Nickless – Reveuse
Indigenous: Shae Baxter- Saunders – The Snakes Journey
People’s Choice: Ella Jensen – The Cellist
