The City of Subiaco’s prestigious Shaun Tan Award for Young Artists is returning for its 23rd year in 2025, with entries set to open on Monday 28 April.
Artists from schools across Western Australia are encouraged to unleash their creativity, innovation, and imagination to create a unique piece of artwork to enter into the award.
Perth-born award patron Shaun Tan – a renowned artist and Academy Award winner – offered some advice to young artists planning to submit entries this year.
“Every drawing and painting is an experiment. You’re not trying to make a good picture to hang on a wall, so don’t worry about how it will end up. Just get in your lab and run the experiment.
“Keep drawing, keep painting, keep struggling if you feel a passion for it. Try to finish everything you start. And above all else, keep looking, keep experimenting, and try to find your own truth in things.”
The award’s purpose has remained consistent since its inception: to give young people a place to submit and showcase their artistic work. The award has attracted some exceptional work over the years, which has been exhibited at Subiaco Library.
A series of artist workshops will take place at the Subiaco Library during the April school holidays, where young artists can learn methods and techniques for creating art. These workshops will also be made available digitally to engage regional schools and libraries across the state.
Mayor David McMullen said, “The Shaun Tan Award offers a valuable opportunity for young artists across the state. Here is a chance to see your artwork showcased and appreciated by the many people who are going to view the exhibition.
“The City of Subiaco is proud to once again support this prestigious award, and we look forward to seeing the creativity in the pieces that are submitted this year.”
Entries
Western Australian school students in years one to twelve are invited to submit an original, two-dimensional visual art creation. Entries will be judged on technique, originality of concept, and choice of materials, by a panel of local artists, illustrators, and educators.
Finalists will be recognised at a presentation ceremony, where prizes will be awarded on behalf of the City of Subiaco and award sponsors. The top 50 artworks will be exhibited at Subiaco Library.
The 2025 Shaun Tan Award is made possible by generous contributions from our award sponsors: Kool Kreative, Jacksons Drawing Supplies, Dymocks Subiaco, Mirage Digital, Creative Kids Arts Club, and Janet Holmes à Court AC.
