When is the next call for entries?
The call for entries for the 2025 Bayside Painting Prize is open 4 November 2024 – 21 February 2025
My form won’t be accepted, why?
Have you filled out all of the required fields? Required fields are indicated by an asterisk: *
Is the image that you are trying to upload too large? Image files must be 2MB or less and in JPEG format (file extensions .jpg or .jpeg are acceptable). If you are unable to resize your image to a smaller size, you can upload another small file image that you have available and email us the correct image which we can update for you.
Can I enter a work on paper?
No, works on paper in any medium are ineligible.
Is there a theme?
No there is not. You can enter a work of any theme.
I’m not from Bayside, can I still enter the Bayside Painting Prize?
Yes you can. The Bayside Painting Prize is open to citizens or permanent residents (at least 12 months) of Australia over 18 years of age. However, if you demonstrate a link to Bayside, Victoria, in addition to the Major Prize (non-acquisitive), you can also enter the Beckett Local Prize (acquisitive). A demonstrated connection is considered to be an artist who has lived, worked or studied in Bayside or the work entered into the prize is of local subject matter. See Terms and Conditions no. 2.
Can I enter a painting that has been exhibited in another art prize?
No, works that have been exhibited in a previous award or prize are ineligible.
Can I enter a painting that has been exhibited before?
Yes, you can enter a painting that has been shown in a previous exhibition, as long as it was not an award or prize.
Is there a minimum or maximum size for the artworks?
Yes, the maximum size for the total artwork is 200 x 200cm. Works must be able to be lifted safely by 2 people.
Can I submit a multi-panelled painting?
Yes, a multi-panelled painting to a maximum dimension of 200 x 200cm can be eligible for the prize. Please indicate the overall size of the work in the Height and Width fields of the Entry Form.
If I submit a multi-panelled painting, do I need to pay an entry fee for each panel?
No, if a single artwork consists of more than one panel (such as a triptych), it will only attract one entry fee.
Is there a restriction with the number of works I can enter?
Yes. Artists may enter a maximum of 3 works. Entry fee is per artwork.
How should I photograph my painting?
You can submit up to 3 images of your painting, please ensure the first image shows the work in its entirety which is cropped to the painting’s edge and doesn’t show any background scenes. If the work is framed, include the frame in your photograph. If you would like to submit additional images, they could either show a close up of the painting’s surface or show it in the context of hanging on a wall. Please don’t use a computer program to insert the painting into a mock room.
Make sure that your painting isn’t resting on an angle. Instead, hang it on a wall or a flat surface to avoid image distortion.
If you are getting your painting framed under glass, photograph it before it is framed to avoid reflections in the photograph. We would still suggest that you take another photograph after the work is framed so that the frame is in shown in a subsequent photo on your application form.
There are plenty of websites that provide artists with tips for photographing their artworks, it is worth looking into this if you are new to photographing your artwork.
How do I know if I have filled out the form successfully?
Once your form has been submitted online, you will automatically receive an email confirming your entry form.
I made a mistake on my entry form, how do I update this?
How will I find out if my application has been successful?
All applicants (successful or not) will be notified by 14 March 2025 via email. If you have not received an email from us by this date, please check your junk mail box in case it has been diverted there or contact Bayside Gallery. If you do not have an email address, you will receive a letter to the postal address provided.
Why have you changed the prize?
After 8 years, the Bayside Painting Prize, previously known as the Bayside Acquisitive Art Prize, has changed to align with our policy to acquire works that demonstrate a local connection to the City of Bayside, Victoria. The Major Prize is now non-acquisitive, and the Beckett Local Prize is acquisitive.
We have also increased the total prize money for the first time, with the Major Prize (non-acquisitive) now $25,000 and the Beckett Local Prize (acquisitive) $10,000. This elevates the prize as one of the most significant annual painting prizes in Australia.
Why is the acquisitive prize called the Beckett Local Prize?
The Beckett Local Prize, is named in honour of Clarice Beckett (1887-1935). Clarice Beckett’s lyrical depictions of Bayside’s suburb Beaumaris, where she lived for many years, are now considered synonymous with the area. Unappreciated during her lifetime, Beckett is now widely recognised as one of Australia’s most important modern landscape painters. It is fitting our local prize is named in her honour.