Sydney Contemporary, in partnership with MA Financial Group, has announced the return of the prestigious MA Art Prize, now increased to $15,000.
The recipient of this acquisitive award will be revealed at the opening of this year’s Sydney Contemporary Fair, which promises to be its most ambitious edition yet. Featuring 114 exhibitors and over 500 artists, the Fair will take place at its long-standing Presenting Partner venue, Carriageworks, from September 11–14, 2025.
Celebrating Emerging Australian Artists
Now in its third consecutive year, the MA Art Prize was established to celebrate and support emerging Australian artists. The award, made possible by the Fair’s Principal Partner, MA Financial Group, provides a platform for early-career artists to gain national recognition and further their professional journeys. Past winners include Manyjilyjarra artist Corban Clause Williams (2023) and First Nations artist Alfred Lowe (2024), both of whom achieved sell-out exhibitions at the Fair following their wins.
Corban Clause Williams, the 2023 winner, expressed his joy, saying, “I feel so pukulpa (happy)! I have big dreams of sharing my art and story with the world, and this brings me one step closer.” Similarly, Alfred Lowe, the 2024 recipient, described his winning work, All dressed up I, as “a joyful celebration of love, defiance, and what it means to present yourself to the world.”
A Distinguished Judging Panel
This year’s judging panel welcomes a new member, independent curator and founder of ALASKA Projects, Sebastian Goldspink. A descendant of the Burramattagal people of Western Sydney, Goldspink brings a wealth of experience, having curated exhibitions both nationally and internationally. He joins an esteemed panel that includes Andrew Martin, Janna Robertson, and Amelia Hill from MA Financial Group; Jarrod Rawlins from the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA); and Sue Cato of Cato & Clive.
Andrew Martin, Managing Director and Head of Asset Management at MA Financial Group, emphasized the importance of the prize: “The MA Art Prize was established to celebrate and support emerging and early-career artists in Australia. We are proud to provide a platform for artists to exhibit their work and connect with a wider audience. Now in its third year, the prize aims to shine a light on the depth of talent within Australia’s contemporary art scene and help artists realize their potential.”
A Cornerstone of Sydney Contemporary
Sydney Contemporary Fair Director Zoe Paulsen highlighted the significance of the prize: “We are delighted to welcome back the MA Art Prize for its third edition with an exciting increase to $15,000, thanks to the continued and generous support of MA Financial Group. This prize is a cornerstone of the Fair’s ongoing commitment to supporting early-career Australian artists, offering significant support to develop their practice and gain national recognition.”
The 2025 edition of Sydney Contemporary promises an unparalleled experience, featuring curated programs such as Installation Contemporary, Performance Contemporary, Talk Contemporary, and Kid Contemporary. This year, the Fair will also debut a new sector, Photo Sydney, showcasing the best in contemporary photography.
Join the Celebration
Sydney Contemporary, supported by the NSW Government through Destination NSW, is a must-attend event for art enthusiasts and collectors alike. Tickets for the Fair are now available for purchase. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the awarding of the 2025 MA Art Prize and explore the vibrant world of contemporary art at Carriageworks this September.
Tickets are available to purchase here.