Local teen talent in cohort contending for major art prize

A 16-year-old Townsville artist has stood out amongst 167 entrants into this year’s prestigious North Queensland Ceramic Awards, earning her a spot as a competition finalist.

The biennial art award returns to Perc Tucker Regional Gallery for its 45th edition this September, showcasing 78 extraordinary artworks from across the country.

Artists are vying for four major prizes: the $10,000 City of Townsville Art Collection Award, the $2,000 EV2 Sportswear Award, the $1,000 People’s Choice Award and the $500 Rainford Family Award.

At just 16 years old, high school student Jade Menzies is the youngest finalist in this year’s competition. Her work Have they changed me? explores themes of confidence, growth and the impact of societal expectations.

“The vessel is a physical embodiment of how I see myself… Through this representation, I truly hope to help society understand the severity of its gaze, not in the naive assumption that it will soften, but in the hope that society will gain some awareness,” Jade said in her artist statement.

Jade’s artwork was one of 167 submissions from artists across Australia, and one of 78 pieces that advanced to the finalist stage.

Councillor Liam Mooney said it was remarkable to see the diversity of talent on display at this year’s awards.

“The North Queensland Ceramic Awards has built a strong reputation as one of the country’s premier art competitions, and this year’s remarkable contingent of artists proves just how far that reputation extends,” Cr Mooney said.

“More than half of all finalists are from Queensland, with six coming from Townsville, which is a great outcome for our local artists. We also have artists from NSW, Victoria, ACT, South Australia, Tasmania and Western Australia represented in this competition.

“This strong interest from our neighbouring states just goes to show how well-regarded the North Queensland Ceramic Awards are not only here in the north, but right across Australia.

“Well done to all of the finalists on your outstanding achievement.”

The North Queensland Ceramic Awards will run from 19 September 2026 through to 17 January 2027 at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery. Entry is free.

For more information on the exhibition or to view the finalists’ artworks, visit the North Queensland Ceramic Awards website.

Finalists by state

• Queensland – 40 artworks
• NSW – 19 artworks
• Victoria – 12 artworks
• ACT – 3 artworks
• South Australia – 2 artworks
• Tasmania – 1 artwork
• Western Australia – 1 artwork