The finalists for the 2026 Mosman Art Prize have been announced, and Studio A's dynamic duo, Adam Mandarano and Damian Showyin, have both been named! Adam and Damian are Studio A's resident weavers. They both paint with distinct, abstract styles, and they are both on an absolute roll right now.
Adam, still hot from his incredible achievement of winning the 2026 Burwood Art Prize, has been selected for his emotion-filled portrait, I like you my brother (2026, acrylic on cardboard, 85 x 185.5cm). And Damian, just after opening his exhibition Suede Blue at Lismore Regional Gallery, has been selected for his glowing landscape, Flowers and Trees (2026, acrylic on recycled textile, 115 x 80cm).
Established in 1947, the Mosman Art Prize is one of Australia's most prestigious prizes, and stands as Australia's longest-running municipal art award. Today, the prize aims to platform the talent, ideas, and identities of contemporary Australian artists.
This year's prize is judged by the CEO of Murray Art Museum Albury, Blair French, who will select the winning painting for acquisition into the esteemed Mosman Collection.
The 2026 Mosman Art Prize opens on Thursday August 20 at 6 pm. Make sure to RSVP via the Mosman Art Gallery website. And keep your fingers crossed for both Adam and Damian!
Words by Sam Kalis.
Left: Damian Showyin, Flowers and Trees, 2026, acrylic on recycled textile, 115 x 80cm.
Right: Adam Mandarano, I like you my brother, 2026, acrylic on cardboard, 85 x 185.5cm.
