Museum Launches 2026 Art Challenge With $500 Prize

Te Hikoi Museum is seeking artists for its fourth annual Art Challenge, which celebrates the museum's extensive collection of artefacts.

"We are looking forward to another diverse round of artistic expressions, and we are excited to again be supported by Southland District Creative Communities Fund to bring the Challenge back in 2026", says Operations Manager Karyn Owen.

The competition is open to all art forms including music, photography, and sculpture. The only requirement is that entries must be inspired by an object from Te Hikoi Museum's collection of more than 8,000 artefacts.

Artists from anywhere can participate by viewing the museum's collection online through www.tehikoi.co.nz. The entry process has two stages - artists first complete an expression of interest form so the museum can provide feedback on any relevant cultural considerations.

"Last year we were thrilled to have our first music entry – and we are very excited to see how artists engage with history through our collection in this year's challenge", says Miss Owen.

Selected artworks will be exhibited during spring alongside the artefacts that inspired them, running through October and November. The exhibition combines creativity and history, offering visitors a unique experience where art and heritage meet.

Artworks will be available for public purchase if artists choose to sell them. A People's Choice Award offers the winning artist a $500 art supplies voucher from Art Supplies Southland.

Expression of interest forms can be downloaded from www.tehikoi.co.nz and must be submitted by 4 September 2026, with completed artworks due by 18 September.