EJ Mantova Art Prize

The EJ Mantova Memorial Art Prize has been held in conjunction with the Bellingen Show since the early 1970’s and pays homage to Ernest John Mantova, Bellingen’s first recognized professional artist who worked in the area from 1931 to 1951.

2025 Entry Form will be available in January.

Following the tremendous success of the 2024 exhibition, which saw record-breaking participation and sales, the EJ Mantova Art Prize announces its return to the heart of Bellingen for 2025. The prestigious art event will once again be hosted at the Bellingen Gallery and Framing Studio, under the enthusiastic stewardship of new owners Jude and Paul Regan.

In an exciting development, the 2025 Art Prize introduces a new Miniatures category, expanding the creative possibilities for participating artists. This addition joins the established prize categories:

  • Marie Warwick Memorial Open Prize (any subject, any medium) - $500 first prize, $200 second prize

  • Landscape Prize - $500 first prize, $200 second prize

  • Sculpture/3D Prize - $500 first prize, $200 second prize

  • *New* Miniatures Prize - $500 first prize, $200 second prize

All artworks will be judged based on three criteria with equal weighting: quality of composition, creativity and originality, and demonstration of technical skill. The month-long exhibition format introduced in 2024 will continue, providing extended opportunities for the community to engage with the works and celebrate local artistic talent. This format has proven highly successful in increasing visibility and sales for participating artists.

Call in to the Gallery to view the exhibition and cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award.

2025 Key dates

  • Entries open: Monday 24 February

  • Entries close: Monday 31 March

  • Exhibits delivered: Tuesday 22 April

  • Official opening & winners announced: Saturday 26 April

  • Exhibition dates: Saturday 26 April – Sunday 25 May

Entry Forms

2025 Entry Form - available January

Mantova Exhibit Name Tag Template - available January

The 2025 EJ Mantova Memorial Art Prize is sponsored by: Bellingen Shire Council, Affirmations Publishing House, Bellingen Gallery & Framing Studio, the C.ex Group (Coffs Harbour), Bellingen Community Arts Council, Ali Brown and Jenny Diamond.

Thank you to all our sponsors for making this event possible.