Entries for the 2026 Kate Derum and Irene Davies Awards are now open.

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.

Entries close Monday 7 September 2026, 5pm AEST.

Please complete one entry form per tapestry you submit. You may submit as many entries as you like. The application processing payment of $25 applies to each entry.

Please download and carefully read the Entry Terms & Conditions before completing your submission.

Terms & Conditions

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AWARDS

All awards are non-acquisitive and amounts are in Australian Dollars. Finalist entries can be for sale.

Kate Derum Award

Awarded to established artists.

Kate Derum Award $4,000

Highly Commended $500

Irene Davies Award

Awarded to artists in their first five years of practice

Irene Davies Award $1,000

Highly Commended $500

Innovation Award

For innovative use of tapestry weaving techniques, materials or design.

Innovation Award $1,500

In Memory of Brian Derum - People’s Choice Award

Recognising the input of those that may not necessarily practice tapestry but show great appreciation and support for the artform and hold dearly those who make it.

In Memory of Brian Derum - People’s Choice Award $500

Maker to Maker Award

Chosen by ATW’s professional weavers with a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and technique.

Maker to Maker Award $200 ATW Yarn Voucher

The Innovation Award is a new category introduced this year, generously supported by Susan Morgan. Inspired by Anna Dunnill’s Gleanings (self-portrait) winner of the 2024 Kate Derum Award, this award celebrates artists who demonstrate originality, experimentation, and creative thinking in their tapestry practice. Recognising work that expands the possibilities of tapestry through innovative approaches to technique, materials, process, or design. This may include the inventive adaptation of traditional weaving methods, the incorporation of unconventional materials, novel approaches to composition and imagery, or the exploration of new conceptual and technical directions within the medium.

Please do not hesitate to contact the ATW team with any questions at contact@austapestry.com.au