Three Faces Portrait Prize 2026 – Expressions of Interest Open Until 15 August

Arts Mansfield is delighted to announce the return of the Three Faces Portrait Prize in 2026, celebrating the people, stories and artistic talent that make our region unique.

This year marks an exciting new chapter for the Prize, with artists invited to submit Expressions of Interest across all artistic mediums. Whether you are a painter, photographer, sculptor or work in another medium, we encourage you to apply.

The response has already been outstanding, with nine Expressions of Interest received so far. We look forward to seeing even more submissions before applications close.

Following the close of Expressions of Interest on 15 August 2026, the Arts Mansfield committee will select three finalist artists to participate in the competition. Each finalist will be invited to create a portrait of a recognised identity from the Mansfield Shire in the medium of their choice.

The Prize culminates in two special community events at the Delatite Hotel, Mansfield.

The Reveal

Thursday 3 September 2026

This cocktail-style evening introduces the three selected artists alongside the mystery sitter. It marks the official beginning of the creative process, with each artist meeting their subject and commencing preliminary sketches and reference photography.

The Unveiling

Thursday 15 October 2026

The completed portraits will be unveiled at a celebratory dinner where the winning artwork will be announced by the judging panel.

Finalists are required to attend both events.

Prize Details

The 2026 Three Faces Portrait Prize offers:

• $2,000 Acquisitive Prize, proudly sponsored by Mansfield Shire Council.

• Two Runner-Up Prizes of $250 each.

• Finalists may offer their artworks for sale, with a 20% commission supporting Arts Mansfield.

• The winning portrait becomes part of the Mansfield Shire Council’s permanent Three Faces collection, creating an enduring visual record of significant local identities.

Who Can Apply?

Expressions of Interest are open to artists who:

• Are over 18 years of age.

• Live in Mansfield or the surrounding district.

• Can provide images of previous portraiture or other artworks for consideration.

The three finalists will be selected by the Arts Mansfield committee. The committee’s decision is final.

Key Dates

• Expressions of Interest close: 5.00 pm, 15 August 2026

• Successful finalists notified: by 20 August 2026

• The Reveal: Thursday 3 September 2026

• The Unveiling: Thursday 15 October 2026

  
  

If you’re looking for an opportunity to showcase your artistic practice while celebrating the people who shape our community, we’d love to hear from you.