Each year The Torch is proud to announce a series of awards aligned to our Confined exhibition series. This year’s awards recognise the incredible talent and growth of First Peoples artists participating in The Torch’s In Prison and In Community programs. They highlight artistic excellence, cultural storytelling, and personal growth, supporting artists in their creative and professional journeys.
2026 Confined 17 Award Winners
The Mathews Timber Acquisitive Award
The Inaugural Mathews Timber Acquisitive Award recognises a painting of excellence by an emerging artist.
Winner: Nev (Gunaikurnai/Kala Lagaw Ya (Torres Strait Islands) peoples), for his painting The Circle of Life
3D Acquisitive Award
This award is generously supported by long-time supporters Greg and Judy Charlton. It allows The Torch to acquire a 3D artwork of outstanding merit or innovation.
Winner: Christopher J (Barkindji people), for his series Message Sticks 1, 2 and 3
The Connection to Culture Acquisitive Award
The Connection to Culture Acquisitive Award recognises an artwork that strongly expresses cultural identity. This award is generously supported by Craig and Seren Little.
Winner: A. Awege (Barkindji people) for her painting Connected
G4S Acquisitive Award
The G4S Acquisitive Award recognises excellence in a Confined 17 artwork by an In Prison or In Community artist.
Winner: Luke Mc (Wulgurukaba people) for his painting Southern Songlines #9
Melbourne Water Yaluk Biik Baan Acquisition Award
Recognising an outstanding artwork of merit that portrays a connection to waterways and Country, the Melbourne Water Yaluk Biik Baan Acquisition Award winner was selected as it beautifully honours the meeting of waters, history and place.
Winner: Dylan B (Gunaikurnai people) for his artwork Where the Yarra Meets the Bay
The Melbourne Road Art & Canvas Stretching Development Award
The Melbourne Road Art & Canvas Stretching Development Award recognises an In Community artist who has demonstrated consistent artistic growth and a professional outlook with an artwork. This year’s winner paints every day and continues to explore new materials and techniques, including clapsticks, Bundis and layered dot work. His work has been highly sought after, and his commitment to independent living, strong engagement with the program and regular connection with staff shows incredible growth.
Winner: Cookie (Dja Dja Wurrung people)
The Melbourne Road Art & Canvas Stretching Connection Award
Recognising an artist released since the last Confined exhibition, the Melbourne Road Art & Canvas Stretching Connection Award awards an artist who has invested significant connection and contribution to The Torch program since that time.
Winner: Teagan (Palawa people)
The Exceptional Story Award
The Exceptional Story Award celebrates the powerful narratives behind our artists’ works. This award has been sponsored by a generous anonymous donor and Victorian writer of great note.
Winner: J.Nolan (Kaurna people) for his artwork Importance of Water
Dennis Thorpe Awards
Named in honour of the late Dennis Thorpe, this award recognises an artist from The Torch whose passion, dedication and cultural leadership continue to inspire us. These awards are presented to two In Community artists who demonstrate year‑round commitment through artmaking, mentoring, workshops and engagement. We thank the private donors: the Marc Family, Melanie Eagle and John Thwaites for their generous support of this award.
Winners: Narnz (Gunaikurnai/Barkindji/Wurundjeri/Bundjalung people) and Mukjarawaint (Gunaikurnai/Yorta Yorta/Palawa/Gunditjmara people)
Narnz has shown extraordinary commitment while balancing complex family responsibilities. Over the past year she has facilitated weaving workshops, supported fellow women in the program, taken part in installs, exhibitions and learning opportunities, and completed her first commissioned work. Her generosity, consistency and cultural leadership embody the spirit of this award. Congratulations, Narnz.
Mukjarawaint has significantly expanded his practice, moving into large‑scale painting, wood carving and burning, and public artworks including murals. He has worked full‑time mentoring others, supported exhibition installs, and continues to pursue opportunities with determination and generosity. His leadership and growth reflect everything this award stands for.
Congratulations to all of our award recipients, and to every artist whose work fills Confined 17.
Confined 17 continues until 14 June 2026. All works are available to purchase and 100% of the artwork price goes directly to the artist.