Saturday 9th of January 2027 to Saturday 16th of January 2027

Open to public daily from 9:30 am to 8:00 pm. Adults $10, Children under 16 years free

Warland Reserve, 1 Esplanade, Victor Harbor, South Australia

Slide 1

2025 Judge Mike Barr with Art Show Chair Julie Irwin

Victor Harbor Art Show 2026 Award winners listing

Judge Victoria Rolinski

VICTOR HARBOR ART PRIZE – BEST IN SHOW

Prize donated from the contributions from all of our Sponsors Prize $12,500

Winning Artist: Daniel Gibbins-Johns

Artwork: “The Slipway Port Adelaide” 26 – 1377

Judge’s Comments:

From first glance the “Best In Show” caught my eye. It displays a captivating play of light & colour, capturing the essence of the moment with painterly charm.

The artist demonstrates a superb control of the medium, revealing a deep understanding of form, perspective, atmosphere and skill.

Beautifully balanced in colour and composition … this work glows with fleeting light and mood.

INDIGENOUS ART Award

Donated by ICON Care Group Prize $500

Winning Artist: Francesca Puruntatameri

Artwork: “Pupuni Jilamara” 26 – 1943

Judge’s Comments:

A striking fusion of tradition and contemporary vision. Deeply grounded and beautifully expressive.

INDIGENOUS ART Award

Donated by ICON Care Group Prize $250

Winning Artist: Alice Napanangka Granites

Artwork: “Mina Mina Dreaming” 26 – 1823

Judge’s Comments:

Deeply spiritual and visually dynamic. A moving reflection of the ancestral.

INDIGENOUS ART Award

Donated by ICON Care Group Prize $250

Winning Artist: Jacqueline Puruntatameri

Artwork: “Kulama Design” 26 – 1944

Judge’s Comments:

Rich in story and spirit, this work speaks with strength and connection to Country.

Painting Awards

CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR Award

Sale price not exceeding $5000

Prize $5000

Winning Artist: Chris Summer

Artwork: “Heritage Crossing – The Old Causeway” 26 – 2149

Judge’s Comments:

This painting demonstrates exceptional mastery of technique, with meticulous attention to detail and flawless execution. This piece stood out for its emotional depth and authenticity, the artist has great control over light and shadow. He has reimagined a familiar subject in a completely fresh way, inviting viewers to see the world through a new lens.

ROTARY VICTOR HARBOR Award

Sale price not exceeding $3000

Prize $3000

Winning Artist: David Chen

Artwork: “At Noon – Series No 19” 26 – 1192

Judge’s Comments:

This painting stands out for its originality and inventive use of colour and texture; both daring and controlled.

Beyond its technical strengths, this piece tells a story. The artist’s vision is clear and compelling, making this work memorable and moving!

ROTARY VICTOR HARBOR Award

Sale price not exceeding $1000

Prize $1000

Winning Artist: Jayson Casto

Artwork: “Adelaide Railway Station at Night” 26 -1181

Judge’s Comments:

This work demonstrated a masterful use of the watercolour medium, with washes applied in a manner that enhances both atmosphere and depth.

Brushwork is confident yet sensitive, allowing the fluid qualities of watercolour to speak without overworking the surface.

ROTARY VICTOR HARBOR Award

Judges Pick

Prize $200

Winning Artist: Lorraine Leitzka

Artwork: “Book Week” 26 -1653

Judge’s Comments:

This painting radiates both skill and soul capturing, not just of what we see but what we feel. Beautifully painted.

ROTARY VICTOR HARBOR Award

Judges Pick

Prize $200

Winning Artist: Ben Saunders

Artwork: “Time and Tide” 26 – 2074

Judge’s Comments:

A striking blend of concept and execution where every element feels intentional.

ROTARY VICTOR HARBOR Award

Judges Pick

Prize $200

Winning Artist: Tina Barr

Artwork: “Showdown”. 26 – 1072

Judge’s Comments:

This painting’s bold choices in colour and composition create a powerful, modern statement.

Visually engaging and thought provoking, this work commands attention.

ROTARY VICTOR HARBOR Award

Judges Pick

Prize $200

Winning Artist: Maxwell Wilks

Artwork: ‘The Crossing” 26 – 2337

Judge’s Comments:

This painting transports the viewer into its world with serene beauty and masterful atmosphere.

The nuanced palette and delicate layering of tones create a sense of place that feels both intimate and expansive.

ROTARY VICTOR HARBOR Award

Judges Pick

Prize $200

Winning Artist: Kristian Mumford

Artwork: “Natural Playground”. 26 – 1809

Judge’s Comments:

Bold and confident; with that it challenges the eye. A fresh perspective on contemporary work, executed with clarity and conviction.

STILL LIFE to include flower or fruit

Donated by Christina Dowling

Prize $400

Winning Artist: Iroda Adil

Artwork: “After Rain” 26 – 1008

Judge’s comments:

This still life commands attention through it’s unapologetically bold treatment of a classic subject.

The artist reinterprets the traditional rose arrangement with confident brushstrokes giving the piece energy!

EMERGING ARTIST

Donated by Langley Family

Prize $400

Winning Artist: Belinda Mitchell

Artwork: “The Great Climb” 26 – 1764

Judge’s Comments:

Overall, this is a confident, promising work from an artist who understands that impressionism is not about imitation, but interpretation.

Promises of great artistic growth ahead.

Sculpture Awards

ROTARY Victor Harbor Sculpture Award

Best Sculpture in Show

Prize $1000

Winning Artists: Chris Reid

Artwork: “Cuttle Fish” 26 – 1973

Judge’s comments:

Graceful form and fluid line bring this cuttle fish, vividly to life. Exceptional craftmanship – dynamic movement captured beautifully in wood.

ROTARY Victor Harbor Sculpture Award

Highly Commended

Prize $200

Winning Artist: David Sjoberg

Artwork: “Shamrock and Paddy” 26 – 2112

Judges’ comments:

A touching and powerful piece – Beautifully conveys nurture and connection. Gracefully carved and full of tenderness. A moving tribute to the bond of nature.