We are delighted to share that Nicola Moss has been selected for the John Leslie Art Prize 2026 for her evocative work Georges River.
During a residency at Georges River Sydney, I explored the canopy cover of the Local Government area. A feeling of connection between trees and water revealed itself. Each element flowing through the landscape of open parks, rehabilitated ecologies and headlands with river views. The synergy of tree water exemplified my connection to nature. These greenspaces, places of leisure, are where I sensed well-being both physically and mentally. Papers frottaged with local tree bark impressions are laid in connection with painted textural patterns and atmospheric responses to the landscape. — Nicola Moss
One of Australia’s most prestigious prizes for landscape painting, the John Leslie Art Prize consistently attracts the highest calibre of artists from all corners of Australia. Named after the Gallery’s Patron and—in many ways the Gallery’s Founder—John Leslie OBE (1919–2016), the continuation of this highly sought $30,000 acquisitive prize is made possible through the generous ongoing support of the Gippsland Art Gallery Foundation.
The John Leslie Art Prize opens at Gippsland Art Gallery September 5 - November 22, 2026
