Fresh! 2026

Celebrating the next wave of Victorian graduates in contemporary craft and design. Presented annually since 1993, Fresh! showcases the energy, skill and innovation of some of the best graduating students from craft, design and fine art disciplines throughout the state.

Fresh! provides an important opportunity for graduates beginning their career as makers. The exhibition fosters the potential of graduating students and provides an insight into new directions of contemporary craft.

Each year, Craft Victoria and an invited team of craft and design professionals view graduate exhibitions across Victoria to search for the freshest emerging makers working within craft and design disciplines.

The Fresh! 2026 selection panel comprised: Jake Nakashima-Edwards, Anke Kindle, Claudia Lau, Ella Saddington  and Craft Victoria's Eliza Tiernan, Exhibitions and Curatorial Manager and Alexander Scott, Exhibitions and Projects Coordinator.

Prizes

The Future Leaders Awards
A philanthropic initiative promoting leadership, achievement and potential among young Australians.
Selected by Dr Helen Sykes AM.
Prize of $1,000

InteriorsAu Emerging Maker Prize
This annual prize recognises outstanding emerging talent from the exhibitors of Craft's Fresh! exhibitors. A profile of the winner is published via architectureau.com.
In 2025 the prize will be judged by InteriorsAu editor Cassie Hansen.

Wardle Craft Prize
Selected by partners John Wardle and Meaghan Dwyer.
Prize of $2,000

Pieces of Eight Catalyst Award 
A mentorship initiative lead by Melanie Katsalidis, Pieces of Eight Gallery Director focusing on professional development, industry insight alongside a financial stipend.
Selected by Melanie Katsalidis, Gallery Director
Prize of $1000