VAS 9x5 Exhibition 2026
1 Jul 2026 – 2 Aug 2026
Awards Ceremony 2pm, Sunday July 26
Location: Cato Gallery & Mackley Members' Room
An homage to the original 1889 9x5 Impressionism Exhibitions, of small works painted on cigar box lids.
The original, iconic exhibition was organised by VAS founding artists Arthur Streeton, Tom Roberts and Charles Conder, who painted their en plein air studies on cigar boxes 9 by 5 inches in size.
Now one of the most popular events in the Victorian Artists Society calendar, this exhibition offers an opportunity for artists to reinterpret the iconic 9x5 format. Ranging from traditional to quirky, these works limited only by size and imagination create a spectacular display.
An additional element to this year's 9 x 5 Exhibition is the inclusion of painted wooden cigar boxes. 24 artists took up the opportunity to put their own spin on the tradition in which our early impressionists painted on, amongst other things, cigar box lids measuring roughly 9 x 5. These were supplied by a fellow artist, Louis Abrahams who owned a tobacconist store in Melbourne and became the catalyst for the original 9 x 5 exhibition in 1889.
Image above: Three Apples, Catherine Jaworski, Oil
2026 Award Recipients
Judge Betina Fauvel-Ogden VAS FVAS
First Prize
Lighthorse Impressions, Kathy Ellem
"I chose this painting as the winner as it was fresh, not overworked and placed beautifully on the board, with skilful application of the paint. It expresses the message perfectly."
Betina Fauvel-Ogden VAS FVAS
Second Prize
Coal River Valley, Early Autumn, Rick Crossland
"This painting is beautifully handled in its simplicity of detail, harmony, tone and colour. It has a luminous quality. A fine piece of work."
Betina Fauvel-Ogden VAS FVAS
Third Prize
Wild Quince, Gregory R. Smith VAS FVAS
"Expertly handled painting. This still life shows great understanding of composition and has a superb paint quality. Outstanding draftsmanship."
Betina Fauvel-Ogden VAS FVAS
Cigar Box Prize
Ophelia, Scott Bamford
"A very clever painting in a restricted space. Ophelia is beautifully executed, creating a soft ethereal quality. The artist knows how to paint the figure. It is as if she is about to rise out of the box."
Betina Fauvel-Ogden VAS FVAS
Bob Senior Prize
Daybreak in Apollo Bay, Bob Pelchen VAS
"The harbour scene captures the spirit of the 9x5's plein air origins, with the loose, immediate quality of a sketch made on the spot. Soft washes and quiet morning light give this watercolour a freshness that stands out."
Young Artist Award
Morning Mooring, Catherine Jaworski
"With a limited palette, the artist has created a serene image of a peaceful morning. The contrasting yellow strip of beach adds dimension. With strong simple strokes the point of interest is created in the boat."
Betina Fauvel-Ogden VAS FVAS
Curator's Choice
Scarlet Bows, Pauline Roche
"This charming portrait holds the eye from anywhere in the room, the dancer's downward gaze and those three scarlet bows giving her a quiet, magnetic presence. Rich shadow and warm skin tones do the rest, pulling focus wherever she's hung"
Highly Commended
Our Street in the Morning, Michelle Weir
"This painting invited me to walk along its path. A simple subject painted with real gusto! Great contrast makes it a visual success."
Melbourne - Through my Eyes Series III, David Chen
"This work is powerful in its use of vigorous brushstrokes and strong contrasts. It commands attention, the colour selection is adventurous and intriguing."
Nude after Zorn, Jemma Cakebread
"Dynamic design, classical lighting and a well painted figure create a moment in time."
Green Reflections, Maxine Wade
"Simple and arresting. This work is gentle, serene, moody, and inviting. Lovely."
Untitled I, Tricia Dijkers Kidd
"A unique concept, this tiny, sculptured figure shows great skill and understanding of the human form. The newsprint coverage adds to the intrigue and individuality."
On the Farm, Ruffy, Leonie Khoury
"Like a little impressionist painting, full of light and colour, vigorous brushstrokes and an endearing subject."
Autumn, Maxine Wade
"As a watercolour, this artist has created a beautifully controlled landscape. The clean washes and colour selection make this work."
Acknowledgment of traditional owners.
We would like to pay our respects to the traditional owners of the land on which our building stands, their leaders, past, present and emerging.