Museums of History NSW congratulates the winners of the Meroogal Women’s Art Prize 2026, MHNSW, September 2026

This biennial prize celebrates the achievements and creativity of women artists in NSW through works that respond to the historic house of Meroogal, its rich cultural heritage and enduring sense of place.

Museums of History NSW acknowledges the people of the Dharawal and Dhurga language groups, the traditional custodians of the land on which Meroogal sits, and their continuing connection to this Country. At this place of women’s stories and histories, we acknowledge in particular the thousands of generations of First Nations women who have lived in this area, and their role in sustaining family, culture, community and Country.

Built in 1885, Meroogal was the cherished home of four generations of women from one family over 100 years. Now a museum that elevates women’s histories, Meroogal contains more than 4,000 belongings accumulated by the resilient and resourceful Thorburn and Macgregor women and reflects their vibrant community life in Nowra on the NSW South Coast.

Artists from across NSW were invited to submit artworks that respond to Meroogal and its meaning within broader historical and contemporary contexts. The finalist artworks will be displayed throughout the property to provide new perspectives on the stories of the people who once lived there and the treasured possessions they left in the house.

The Meroogal Women’s Art Prize is a regional, non-acquisitive competition and exhibition. It is open to a work in any medium made by a woman aged 18 years or over who is a resident of NSW.

The exhibition will be on display to the public from 19 September 2026 to 24 April 2027. The Meroogal Women’s Art Prize 2026 is presented by Museums of History NSW in partnership with Bundanon and Shoalhaven Regional Gallery, Nowra.
Find out more at Meroogal Women’s Art Prize 2026 exhibition.