Reeflections Student Art Competition Returns in 2026
Celebrating Youth Creativity Across the Whitsundays
Young artists across the Whitsundays are once again invited to turn inspiration into art as the Reeflections Student Art Competition returns for 2026, proudly presented by Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays.
After a successful first year, Reeflections is expanding its reach and creative ambition, offering students a professional platform to showcase their talent during one of the region’s most vibrant cultural seasons.
Who Can Enter?
The 2026 competition is open to Year 9–12 students from:
Whether you’re a drawer, painter, or sculptor, Reeflections is your chance to step into the spotlight.
2026 Theme: “Whitsundays & the Great Barrier Reef – Celebrating Marine Beauty and Conservation”
This year’s theme invites students to explore the colours, textures, and stories of our region’s natural wonders. From coral gardens and marine wildlife to environmental protection and personal connection, the theme is wide open for interpretation.
Abstract, realistic, symbolic, or experimental, all artistic styles are welcome.
What’s on Offer in 2026?
Finalists will enjoy a truly special experience:
Professional exhibition throughout August at Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays during the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
Cash prizes for the top three artworks:
- 1st Prize: $300
- 2nd Prize: $150
- 3rd Prize: $50
A major draw prize: All finalists go into the draw to win a 2‑night stay at Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island for up to 2 adults and 2 children.
Winners announced at a celebratory event hosted in the Gallery.
Key Dates
Entries open now and close 5pm on 22 July 2026.
Now is the perfect time to pick up your paintbrush, sketchbook, or sculpting tools and bring your reef‑inspired vision to life.
How to Enter
Full details, guidelines, and the entry form are available at: https://www.athotelgroup.com/airlie-beach/reeflections
Let’s celebrate our region, our reef, and our rising artists — one stroke at a time.
Artwork Credit- *Reef of Chance* merges coral reefs with playing cards to explore nature’s fragility and the unpredictability of life. The work reflects on how chance, strategy, and human impact intertwine within ecosystems. It invites reflection on the delicate balance between natural beauty and the randomness—or control—of human influence. Lily Smith Year 10, 2025 Reeflections artist.
