2026 Cuttlefest Art Prize – People's Choice Award Winner Announced
The 2026 Cuttlefest Art Prize attracted an outstanding response from the community, with 20 individual artists and more than 170 students submitting entries. More than 50 artworks were exhibited, giving visitors the opportunity to vote for their favourite piece throughout June 2026.
The public response was overwhelming, with votes cast for 15 different artworks, reflecting the exceptional quality and diversity of this year's exhibition.
Following the voting, we’re pleased to announce our 2026 People's Choice Award winner is Michelle Sarret for her stunning artwork, The Guiding Light. The piece – beautifully painted on recycled redwood – captures the Point Lowly Lighthouse on a dramatic stormy, moonlit night. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!
With the final vote count incredibly close, we are also pleased to recognise the following Highly Commended People's Choice Award recipients:
Kelly Warren for her beautiful sepia-toned bleach-on-cotton artwork, One Breath, Two Worlds
Deborah Dawson for her unique leadlight entry, Spencer Gulf Giant Cuttlefish
Tunya King & Lila Brown for their popular 3D artwork, Whyalla Underwater World
Council and Country Arts SA’s Arts & Cultural Facilitator Teresa Coles encouraged the community to visit and experience the incredible creativity and talent showcased in this year's exhibition, which will remain on display at the Middleback Arts Centre until early August.
"The Cuttlefest Art Prize is one of the ways we can highlight the importance of the Giant Australian Cuttlefish, the amazing coastal waters of Whyalla, and the incredible artistic talent we have in our community," Ms Coles said.
“Congratulations to all of our artists and students who contributed to another outstanding showcase, and thank you to everyone who supported the exhibition by casting a vote.”
The 2026 Cuttlefest Art Prize is supported in partnership with Whyalla Business & Tourism, Whyalla City Council and Country Arts SA. A full list of winners from this year’s prize can be found here.