Du Rietz Art Awards 2025: A National Showcase of Creative Talent
Published on 29 September 2025
The Gympie Regional Gallery is proud to present the 2025 Du Rietz Art Awards exhibition, on display from Saturday 11 October to Friday 21 November 2025.
Now in its fifth year, the Awards, named after Hugo William Du Rietz, architect of the historic Gympie School of Arts building that houses the Gallery, has grown into one of Queensland’s premier contemporary art competitions.
This year’s exhibition features a diverse collection of 97 2D and 3D works, selected from entries submitted by artists from across Australia.
Gympie Regional Council Mayor, Glen Hartwig, said the continued growth of the Du Rietz Art Awards was a testament to its national reputation.
“This year, Gallery staff received 225 entries, an 18% increase on last year’s record. It’s fantastic to see such a strong mix of artists from across Australia, as well as right here in our own community,” Cr Hartwig said.
“The Opening Night and Award Ceremony on Friday 17 October is always a highlight on our region’s arts and culture calendar. It’s not just about the artworks on display, it’s about the people, the conversations, and the energy in the room. Guests can meet the artists, hear their stories, enjoy live music, and be part of something intimate and truly special.
“I also want to thank the dedicated team at the Gympie Regional Gallery. Their passion and commitment have transformed the Du Rietz Art Awards from a local competition into a national platform. They do an outstanding job supporting arts and culture in our region and should be proud of the contribution they make to our community.”
A series of events will accompany the exhibition, giving visitors the chance to engage directly with the art, judges, and artists:
Visitors are also invited to take part in the People’s Choice Award, valued at $1,000. The winner will be announced on the Gympie Regional Gallery’s Facebook page on Saturday, 15 November.
The 2025 Du Rietz Art Awards are proudly sponsored by Countrywide Metals, Budget Steel, SoMa SoMa Espresso Bar, CAA Consulting, David and Sally Gartshore, Annette Reilly, Heinke Butt, and Drs Calin and Mihaela Negru-Radu.
The Gympie Regional Gallery, located at 39 Nash Street, Gympie, offers free entry and is open Tuesday to Friday, 10am–4pm, and Saturday, 10am–2pm.