City announces esteemed judging panel for 2026 Cossack Art Awards
Three leading Australian creatives have been appointed as judges for the 2026 Cossack Art Awards, bringing a strong mix of cultural insight, technical skill and national arts experience to Australia’s unique regional art prize.
Ngarluma, Kariyarra, Nyul Nyul and Yawuru woman Bobbi Lockyer will be joined by artist and writer Gregory Pryor and renowned Fremantle oil painter Peter Barker as this year’s judging panel.
Born on Kariyarra Country, Bobbi Lockyer is a proud Ngarluma, Kariyarra, Nyul Nyul and Yawuru woman and an internationally recognised multidisciplinary artist celebrated for her vibrant colours and powerful cultural storytelling.
With a career spanning more than 35 years, Gregory Pryor has been the recipient of residencies and prizes, most recently as a winner of the 2021 Splash contemporary watercolour award, at the McClelland Art Gallery, Victoria.
Renowned Fremantle oil painter Peter Barker adds decades of exhibition experience in Australia and overseas, known for atmospheric works exploring narrative and imagination.
City of Karratha Mayor Daniel Scott said securing such a high-calibre panel highlights the strength and reputation of the Cossack Art Awards.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome three judges who each bring extraordinary depth of knowledge, skill and lived experience to this year’s award,” Mayor Scott said.
“Bobbi, Gregory and Peter represent the diversity and excellence of Australia’s arts community, and their combined perspectives will enrich the entire judging process.”
Mayor Scott said the panel will help further elevate the 2026 program.
“The Cossack Art Awards continues to gain national attention, and announcing judges of this calibre reinforces its standing as a major arts event for our region,” Mayor Scott said.
“Our community values the cultural contribution this award brings each year, and we’re excited to see how this panel shapes the 2026 exhibition.”
The 2026 Cossack Art Awards will open for submissions next year, and for more information visit cossackartawards.com.au/information-for-artists.
The Cossack Art Awards are presented by the City of Karratha with principal partner Rio Tinto.