Expressions of Interest now open for Hawkesbury Now 2026

⁠⁠⁠Calling all local artists! Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now open for Hawkesbury Regional Gallery’s annual exhibition and art fair Hawkesbury Now.

Hawkesbury Now 2026Running since 2014, Hawkesbury Now is a program dedicated to showcasing contemporary art from artists living in the Hawkesbury Local Government Area (LGA). Historically, the program has been developed closely with local art societies and creative groups across North-West Sydney, including the Ferry Artists Gallery, Friends of Hawkesbury Art Community and Regional Gallery Inc. (FOHAC), Hawkesbury Artists & Artisans Trail, Hawkesbury Camera Club, Hawkesbury Community Arts Workshop, Hawkesbury Remakery, Macquarie Towns Art Society, Piggery Lane Studios & Gallery, and TAFE NSW – Media, Arts, Design + Entertainment (MADE) Western Sydney, among others.

In 2026, the program is organised via an EOI process open to emerging, mid-career and established artists who fit at least one of the following criteria:

• live within the Hawkesbury Local Government Area (LGA),
• maintain a studio practice within the Hawkesbury LGA, OR
• demonstrate a strong connection to the Hawkesbury region through their creative practice, subject matter, or sustained community engagement.

Applications are open now until 11:59PM Sunday 2 August 2026. For more information, including eligibility criteria, please visit the gallery website: https://www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/gallery/events-and-programs/hawkesbury-now

Need support with your application?

During the EOI period, the Gallery team are facilitating a number of opportunities for artists to get assistance with their online application and professional practice.

• One-on-one EOI Support Sessions

Thursday 9 July, 10am – 4pm & Sunday 12 July, 10am – 3pm If you need assistance with submitting your online EOI or advice on whether your artwork is eligible or not, support is available. During these 20-minute sessions the Gallery team can help you with submitting your EOI response online, offer advice on whether your artwork is suitable, and answer general questions regarding Hawkesbury Now.

Bookings are essential - to request a support session, please email gallery@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au

• Professional Development Workshop with National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA)

Sunday 19 July, 11am - 2pm | FREE This hands-on workshop will introduce the NAVA Code of Practice and how it can help you, and cover topics including valuing your artwork, writing effective artist statements, and preparing an artist CV. This workshop will be hosted by NAVA, with Hawkesbury Regional Gallery staff available to answer any questions regarding your Hawkesbury Now EOI.

Bookings are essential – visit hawkesburygallery.eventbrite.com to register.

For general questions regarding the application process or your submission, please contact the Gallery via gallery@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au.

• Contact: Mariam Abboud | Museum and Gallery Coordinator – Arts & Culture | Hawkesbury City Council
• Phone: 4560 4436
• Email: mariam.abboud@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au