About the Australian Stencil Art Prize
We started the Australian Stencil Art Prize because we believe stencil art deserves its own spotlight in Australia’s thriving street art scene. Too often, stencil work gets lumped in with graffiti or treated as the quieter cousin of large-scale murals — but we know better. Since 2010, we’ve been carving out a dedicated space for this precise, powerful, and deeply expressive medium, and we’re only getting started.
Our Mission: Championing Stencil Art in Australia
Our mission is simple but ambitious: to elevate stencil art as a distinct and vital art form. We provide a national platform for artists to showcase their work, connect with audiences, and gain the recognition they deserve. Since our first prize in 2010, we’ve awarded over $50,000 to Australian artists and featured hundreds of works in touring exhibitions across the country. That’s not just a number — it’s a growing community of makers pushing the medium forward.
Why We Focus on Stencil Art
Stencil art demands precision, patience, and a sharp eye for negative space. It’s a craft that rewards planning as much as spontaneity, and it carries a rich history from political protest to fine art galleries. We think it deserves its own dedicated prize because the skills involved are unique and the results can be breathtaking.
Supporting Australian Artists
From first-time entrants to established names, we’re committed to giving Australian stencil artists a genuine career boost. Prize money, exhibition exposure, and networking opportunities all help turn a passion into a practice.
Editorial Focus: Street Art, Spray Paint, and Beyond
Our blog covers the latest in stencil art and street art, from spray paint techniques to artist interviews and exhibition reviews. We highlight major events like the Melbourne Stencil Festival and the Nuart Festival in Adelaide, and we’re not afraid to share our opinions on the state of the scene. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious fan, there’s something here for you.
What We Write About
- Hands-on spray paint and stencil techniques
- Interviews with emerging and established Australian artists
- Reviews of exhibitions and street art festivals
- News about art prizes and open calls
Our Opinionated Take
We don’t just report — we have a point of view. If a festival misses the mark or a council policy threatens public art, we’ll say so. Honest commentary keeps the conversation moving and holds the scene accountable.
Our Team Approach: Community-Driven and Hands-On
Our editorial team is made up of practising stencil artists, curators, and writers who are active in the Australian street art community. We’re not writing from the sidelines — we’re in the studio, at the openings, and on the streets. We work closely with organisations like the National Gallery of Australia and local councils to ensure the prize remains accessible and relevant to artists at every level.
Who We Are
We’re a small, passionate crew with a shared love for stencil art. Between us, we’ve cut thousands of stencils, hung dozens of shows, and written plenty of words about the scene we care about.
How We Work with the Community
We consult artists, partner with galleries, and listen to feedback. The prize belongs to the community, so we build it with the community.
FAQ
When was the Australian Stencil Art Prize founded?
The prize was founded in 2010 and has been running ever since, awarding over $50,000 to Australian artists along the way.
Who can enter the prize?
The prize is open to Australian artists working in stencil-based mediums. We welcome entries from emerging and established artists alike.
What kind of content does your blog cover?
We cover stencil art, street art, spray paint techniques, artist interviews, and exhibition reviews, including major events like the Melbourne Stencil Festival and the Nuart Festival in Adelaide.
How can I get involved?
You can enter the prize, submit a guest article, or reach out to our editorial team about partnerships and community projects.
We’re committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive stencil art community across Australia — and we’d love for you to be part of it. Whether you’re an artist, a fan, or just stencil-curious, get in touch, enter the prize, or follow along with our blog. The scene is stronger with you in it.