Official Opening of the 2026 Youthscape Art Prize
It was a real privilege to officially open the 2026 Youthscape Art Prize and Exhibition at the Royal South Australian Society of Arts Gallery.
Youthscape is a biennial exhibition that celebrates the work of talented South Australian artists aged 15–26. It provides an important platform for emerging creatives to exhibit their work, gain professional experience and connect with the wider arts community.
Being invited to open this year's exhibition was particularly meaningful to me because my own journey with Youthscape began almost a decade ago. I first exhibited in the exhibition between 2016 and 2018, and it was one of the early opportunities that helped me build confidence as a young artist and establish my professional practice.
To return this year as an FRSASA member and officially open the exhibition felt like a full-circle moment.
Olivia Dryden delivering the official opening speech at the 2026 Youthscape Art Prize and Exhibition at the Royal South Australian Society of Arts Gallery in Adelaide.
During my opening address, I shared some of the lessons I've learnt throughout my career as a jewellery artist. I encouraged the exhibiting artists to say yes to opportunities, exhibit their work whenever they can, build relationships within the arts community and remember that developing a creative career is a long-term journey. Every exhibition, conversation and experience helps shape where your practice will go next.
One of the most rewarding parts of the afternoon was seeing the incredible diversity of work on display. The standard of this year's exhibition was outstanding, with artists exploring a wide range of ideas, materials and techniques.
Congratulations to all of the exhibiting artists and award recipients. The creativity, dedication and diversity of work on display made this year's exhibition a wonderful celebration of emerging South Australian talent.
A special congratulations to Charlotte McCarthy, who was awarded the prestigious Malcolm & Margaret Carbins Trust Overall Prize ($5,000) for her outstanding artwork Once Upon a Time, I Had Wings. It was a pleasure to see such exceptional work recognised.
Thank you to the Royal South Australian Society of Arts for the invitation to officially open the exhibition, and for continuing to support emerging South Australian artists through this important exhibition.
I look forward to seeing where this talented group of artists goes next.
Watch the Opening Speech
If you couldn't attend the official opening, you can watch highlights of my speech and see the 2026 Youthscape Art Prize exhibition in this short video on Facebook.
🎥 Watch the video here: https://www.facebook.com/reel/983031181120555
Olivia Dryden (left) with Alex Beckinsale (centre) and Sandra Earle-Russo (right) at the official opening of the 2026 Youthscape Art Prize at the Royal South Australian Society of Arts Gallery, Adelaide.
