CELEBRATING CERAMICS

The Inaugural Clay Sydney Prize in Ceramics

At Clay Sydney, Ceramics is our passion. Day in, day out see see works being created by the ceramics community. Not just those who work within our studios, but the wider Sydney community - a community that's supportive, nurturing, and tallented.

So, we thought it was about time we showcased the incredible works being created by these Sydney Ceramicists.

For this non-aquisitory prize, we're on the hunt for work that showcases both originality, and finness of ceramic processes. All levels of ceramicists are invited to apply, as we belive tallent isn't exclusive to one traditional journey.

This years judges are:

  • Bea Bellingham - Founder and Director of Clay Sydney
  • Emilya Colliver - Founding Director of Art Pharmacy
  • Karin Huchatz - Founder and Director of DEA Store

Applications open 30 March 2023

Applications are open to interested participants who reside in the greater Sydney Area, from emerging to established artists. 

Out of all applicants, 30 finalists will be chosen to have their work exhibited at an exhibition, hosted by Clay Sydney in Enmore on June 7, 2023.

The winner will receive a $750 non-aquisitory prize.  A secondary prize, the People’s Choice Award, will receive a $100 non-aquisitory prize.

All final entries will be available for sale at the exhibition.  Price is required upon application entry. Clay Sydney will recieve a 25% commission of any works sold as a result of inclusion in the Prize.

Requirements and criteria

  • Although non-ceramic components in the work will be allowed, work must be created from at least 95% traditional ceramic materials (clay, glaze, lustre etc)
  • Max dimensions of WORK 80cm x 80cm x 80cm
  • Artists must reside in NSW (there is no requirement to have a relationship past or present, with Clay Sydney - either as a member or a student)
  • Piece must be free standing
  • Clay must be fired (raw, or unfired clay will not be accepted)
  • Entered work must be a finished piece - concepts will not be considered.
  • Both Sculptural or functional pieces are welcome, as long as they fit the criteria
  • Work will be judged on originality and finness of process.
  • All final entries will be available for sale at the exhibition.  Price is required upon application entry. Clay Sydney will recieve a 25% commission of any works sold as a result of inclusion in the Prize
  • Delivery and retrevial of work is the responsibility of the shortlisted artist, and must occur within dates specified pre and post exhibition. Physical works are not required for judging.
  • Delivery of work must be in person by the artist themselves. No couriers are allowed
  • Insurance of work is the responsibility of the artists. Clay Sydney takes no responsibility of damage or loss, by any means.

Important dates

Mar 30, 2023: Applications open
Apr 30, 2023: Application close
May 15, 2023: Finalists Announced
Jun 7, 2023: EXHIBITION SHOW