The Straithnairn Arts Association, in partnership with Ginninderry and artsACT, is excited to announce the inaugural Straithnairn Arts Small Sculpture Prize (SASS) 2025. 

This new prize offers an impressive prize pool of $14,000, aiming to recognise and celebrate the finest small-scale sculptures created by Australian artists. The competition invites artists from all walks of life – whether emerging or established – to showcase their creativity and skill in the world of sculpture. 

Designed to foster innovation in the field of small-scale sculpture, this award emphasises a diverse range of artistic expression, encouraging artists to experiment with new forms, materials, and concepts. The prize aims to highlight the creativity and potential of smaller works, offering a space for contemporary sculptors to experiment and push boundaries. 

The competition’s theme, small sculptures with big attitude, invites artists to think beyond conventional forms and showcase works that resonate with strong visual and conceptual impact, even within the constraints of size. 

Strathnairn Arts has a long history of supporting and nurturing artists working in three-dimensional media. As a not-for-profit arts association, it provides access to a variety of art facilities, including a foundry and ceramics studio. This competition builds upon Straithnairn’s legacy by offering artists the opportunity to gain exposure for their work while encouraging community engagement with the arts. 

Through this initiative, Straithnairn Arts continues to contribute to the cultural fabric of the ACT region while promoting the development of sculptural practices and encouraging conversations about the value of smaller, more accessible art forms in contrast to large public sculptures. 

For more information on how to enter, full terms and conditions, and submission guidelines, please visit the Strathnairn Arts website. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting new competition and celebrate the creativity and innovation of Australian sculptors!

Entries for the Straithnairn Arts Small Sculpture Prize close on July 9 at 5pm, with the finalists announced on July 30.