Art Bursaries
2026 Art Bursaries - Open September, 2026
Artspace Mackay’s 2026 Rick Wood Bursary ($1000) and Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary ($3000)
Rick Wood Bursary
$1000 art bursary for school graduates applying to study visual or creative arts
If you’re graduating high school in 2026 and planning to continue tertiary studies in visual arts and/or creative industries in 2027, consider applying for this valuable financial assistance to further your artistic career!
The bursary is open to students of the Mackay region completing year 12 in 2026, who wish to pursue a career in any aspect of visual arts or creative industries, and may be used for tuition fees, textbooks, equipment or expenses required as part of the student’s studies.
This Bursary was designed to support and encourage school leavers, originating from the Mackay Regional Council local government area, who wish to pursue a career in the visual arts. The bursary pays tribute to one of Mackay’s celebrated artists, the late Rick Wood and recognises his service and enthusiasm for the arts.
Rick Wood was integral to the development of ceramics in north Queensland for more than two decades. He was instrumental in founding the Pioneer Potters group, which was well respected for its serious and dedicated approach to the advancement of ceramics in Central Queensland.
If you have any questions, please contact Tracey Heathwood, Artspace Mackay Director by phone 4961 9722 or email artspace@mackay.qld.gov.au
Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for the Rick Wood Bursary, you must be:
- A local resident of the Mackay Regional Council Local Government Area
- Currently studying Year 12 and have applied to study or intend to apply to study the following year in a recognised visual arts or creative industries tertiary course.
How do I apply?
Students are required to submit an application to Artspace Mackay including:
- A cover letter outlining why you should be considered (tell us why you’re the winning candidate!) and detailing which university course you’re applying to
- A brief resume of artistic achievements to date; and
- A USB/memory stick containing your artist’s portfolio of maximum 10 high quality images of your work (digital videos and/or photos accepted).
How can I use the bursary funds?
The $1,000 Rick Wood Bursary may be used for tuition fees, textbooks, equipment or expenses required as part of your studies.
What is the closing date and when will I be notified if successful?
Applications close in November 2026, with the successful applicant announced in late November 2026. Final dates to be confirmed
How to submit my application?
Mail to: Artspace Mackay Rick Wood Bursary, PO Box 41, Mackay Qld 4740
Personally deliver to: Front reception desk at Artspace Mackay, 61 Gordon St, Civic Precinct, Mackay.
Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary
$3000 art bursary for tertiary students currently studying visual or creative arts
If you’re currently studying visual or creative arts at a tertiary level, apply now for this valuable financial assistance to further your artistic career!
This bursary continues the legacy of Artspace Mackay Foundation, a former independent, non-profit organisation whose mission was to strengthen financial support for Artspace Mackay by driving philanthropic activities that resulted in sustainable partnerships with individuals, business and government.
The bursary is open to university students currently studying/enrolled in a recognised visual arts or creative industries tertiary course in 2026, and may be used for tuition fees, textbooks, equipment or expenses required as part of the student’s studies.
If you have more questions, contact Tracey Heathwood, Artspace Mackay Director by phone 4961 9722 or email artspace@mackay.qld.gov.au.
Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for the Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary, you must be:
- A local resident of the Mackay Regional Council Local Government Area and
- Currently studying/enrolled in a recognised visual arts or creative industries tertiary course.
How do I apply?
Tertiary students are required to submit an application including:
- A cover letter outlining why you should be considered (tell us why you’re the winning candidate!) and detailing which university course you’re currently studying
- A brief resume of artistic achievements to date
- A USB/memory stick containing your artist’s portfolio of maximum 10 high quality images of your work (digital videos and/or photos accepted).
How can I use the bursary funds?
The $3000 Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary may be used for tuition fees, textbooks, equipment or other expenses required as part of your studies.
What is the closing date and when will I know if successful?
Applications close November 2026, with the successful applicant announced in late November 2026. Final dates are to be confirmed.
How to submit my application?
Mail to: Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary, PO Box 41, Mackay Qld 4740
Personally deliver to: Front reception desk at Artspace Mackay, 61 Gordon St, Civic Precinct, Mackay.
The program was initiated to support and encourage young people from the Mackay region aged 17-25 yrs to pursue a career in any aspect of visual arts and creative industry. Through this bursary, Artspace Mackay seeks applicants who demonstrate creative talent and ability, enthusiasm, and dedication to succeed in their chosen field.
Past recipients
Past recipients of the Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary have found the financial aid provided by the bursary invaluable for the continuation of their study. Click on the active links below to read personal accounts and advice for others thinking about applying…
2021 - Hollee Standon (Rick Wood Bursary)
2021 - Lisa Roebig Holmes (Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary)
2020 - Dylan Mooney
2019 – Tristan Kane
2018 - Linnea Freeman
2017 - Bethany Cordwell
2016 - Julia Kaddatz
2015 - Phoebe Short
2014 - Rachel McGann
2013 - Kelly Hooker
2012 - Kaitlin Bakalar
2011 - Jessie Hall
2010 - Nicola Laidlow