The biennial Kate Derum and Irene Davies Awards celebrate creativity and excellence in contemporary tapestry. Hosted by the Australian Tapestry Workshop in Naarm/Melbourne, artists from around the world are invited to submit small-scale hand-woven tapestries that reflect an expressive use of materials, concept, colour and design.
This year, we received applications from artists across 22 countries, reflecting the breadth of contemporary tapestry today. The 2026 finalists offer a snapshot of the ideas, materials and approaches shaping the medium, from emerging perspectives to established practices.
Australian Tapestry Workshop
262 - 266 Park St, South Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
The 2026 judges were Rachel Arndt, Director of Wangaratta Art Gallery; Beck Jobson, GM/Head of Studio at ATW; Ema Shin, 2026 Biennale of Sydney artist; and Anna Dunnill, winner of the 2024 Kate Derum Award.
Jane Walkley, United Kingdom
Peg Plan, 2025
Louise Martin, United Kingdom
Amaranth Blue, 2026
Emilie Jeffreys, Australia
Frayed, 2025
Anne Smith, United Kingdom
Kenosis, 2026
Melanie Cobham, Australia
Hanging Rock, 2026
Hanna Zabudska, Ireland
Shelter, 2025
The 2026 Kate Derum and Irene Davies Awards are made possible through the generous support of Susan Morgan and Alayne Davies, and sponsor Lime Au Lait Atelier.
