ONE of the region’s favourite art competitions, the EJ Mantova Art Prize, is again open for entries with the hope this year will bring yet another record-breaking number of artworks.
While not the most lucrative art prize, the Mantova has a distinguished history and a special place in the hearts of locals.
Its strong ties to the Bellingen Show, which date back more than 50 years, lends it broad attraction.
The prize also welcomes artists from all walks of life and skill levels, making it very accessible.
And while last year’s show was cancelled due to weather, the art prize was able to proceed, inviting artists to exhibit for a one-month period at Bellingen Gallery and Framing Studio.
Coco Elder, winner of the Landscape category in 2024 and 2025, enjoys being involved in the event.
“It’s a community-based art prize and brings a lot of local artists out of the woodwork,” she said.
Ms Elder noted that the exhibiting period of four weeks and its location on Bellingen’s main street was “great exposure for participating artists.”
“The opening night is lovely too, it’s jam packed with other artists and community members,” she added.
Ernest John Mantova was born in Sydney to Italian parents and moved to Bellingen in 1931.
He is regarded as Bellingen’s first professional artist.
Polly Wells, who recently coordinated the restoration of six donated Mantova artworks, was struck by the artist’s ability to capture the mood and light of Bellingen.
Mantova counted the famous impressionist painter Elioth Gruner among his friends and was well-liked and supported by the Bellingen community.
“Bellingen is a centre of arts and culture, and we do punch above our weight, so it’s good to preserve some of Bellingen’s past identity,” Polly said.
The 2026 competition awards prizes in four categories: Landscape, 3D/Sculpture, Miniatures and the Open.
Selected entries will be exhibited from 11 April to 10 May at Bellingen Gallery and Framing Studio.
Entries for this year’s prize close Monday 16 March.
Artists are encouraged to create an account and submit their entries through the new online portal at: showday.online/show/bellingen.
Entry forms are also available for download on the Bellingen Show’s website: bellingenshow.com.au/entries-ej-mantova-art-prize.
By Jessica MILLER
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