National Works on Paper

One of Australia's most prestigious art awards and exhibitions, National Works on Paper 2026 opens to the public at Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery (MPRG).

The winner of the $20,000 acquisitive National Works on Paper Prize will be announced at a special opening event on Friday 4 September, with the winning work acquired for the MPRG's permanent Collection.

Celebrating more than 50 years of artistic excellence and the creative possibilities of paper, National Works on Paper brings together 68 finalists selected from 935 submissions. The 2026 exhibition features established and emerging artists working across drawing, printmaking, collage, sculpture and contemporary paper-based practice.

Held biennially, National Works on Paper provides an important platform for Australian artists and offers audiences the opportunity to experience some of the country's most compelling and thought-provoking contemporary art in a single exhibition. The exhibition will be accompanied by a program of artist talks, tours and special events. For more information, visit MPRG's website.