The Finalists
Returning for its 30th year, Australia’s premier satirical art prize has attracted a record number of artwork submissions, with 70 portraits vying for the 2026 Bald Archy Prize.
Check out the finalists for 2026 below. Click on the pictures for more information about the artwork, or to submit an Expression of Interest to purchase the artwork.
2026 Bald Archy Prize Finalists
45 years in HELL!
Artist: Cecilia Smith
45 Years since the one and only Bon Scott hit the Highway to Hell, and he's still cool as a cuke! 2025 marks 45 years since the release of AC/DC's incredible album "HIGHWAY TO HELL" was released, just after the departure of our beloved Bon, the greatest Rock n Roll singer of all time. Here's Bon, still defiant, still rockin' and sticking it to the man down that glory road with no regrets...
All Sing to my Tune
Artist: Xavier Ghazi
An alternative title initially considered for this painting was "Music To His Ears" in reference to the main issue of the day in Australian society and politics which was (and still is) hate speech. I had always felt that, to a great degree, the media empire over which he used to reign supreme was dangerously dabbling in extremes further accentuating division, fear and loathing within society. Now, he may no longer be officially in that role as he has retired but no one is fooled. That role never weakened or diminished. His footprint and influence are still markedly visible all over hundreds of local, national, and international publishing outlets he used to orchestrate.
Amyl and the Wiggles
Artist: Kate Bowditch
An unexpected collaboration at the 2025 ARIA Awards that we didn't know we needed. The familiar faces and colours of The Wiggles meet Amy Taylor's (Amyl and the Sniffers) raw energy, blurring the line between childhood nostalgia and punk rebellion. Perhaps instead of renting a Hertz, Amy will come for a drive in the Big Red Car?
Anika Wells Private Limo Girl
Artist: Louise Sweeney
Jet setting around the world is so quiche
Aussie Wicket Thief
Artist: Tricia Reust
Summer cricket's been a heist!
A crime there on the telly
where Mitchell Starc has proved to be
more ruthless than Ned Kelly.
His eyes must lock onto the bales
as he comes steaming in.
A statue would this history show
and mark our Ashes win.
Collateral Habitat
Artist: Mark Tippett
In a scene reminiscent of the street fundraisers of the 1980s, Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, dons a koala suit with rattling, red donation bucket to highlight perceived contradictions between environmental advocacy and large-scale infrastructure development. The work invites viewers to question where good intentions collide with unintended consequences, and whether the pursuit of 'net zero' risks sidelining the very ecosystems it claims to protect.
Dancing the Crocs - Trot
Artist: James Brennan
Robert Irwin is quickly becoming an Aussie icon like his late Dad Steve. A chip off the old block, Robert is a conservationist, television personality, wildlife photographer, actor and just recently the winner of the United States program Dancing with the Stars! His trajectory to the stars knows no bounds and he has been hailed a sex symbol by the press. In this painting Robert can be seen performing the latest dance craze the Crocs - Trot with his female crocodilian partner.
The Dutt Plug
Artist: Scott Marsh
Bend over backwards... Just like your campaign promises.
Tired of scandals that don't come with personal satisfaction?
Worn out from all the flip-flopping without any real stimulation?
Then meet your new favourite backdoor deal: The Dutt Plug.
*Engineered from morally flexible and ethically adventurous materials, this plug is made of 100% recycled campaign tropes and the shredded hope of your constituents.
*It's sleek, slippery and spins 180 degrees-just like your campaign policies. comes pre lubed with corporate influence.
*The Dutt Plug guarantees the only thing getting screwed.... is you.
Emperor Australis
Artist: Mark Davis
Following his thumping second election victory, Albo began to have vivid Napoleonic dreams. Labor's previous great leaders, Kevvy and J-Gizza, also gave him unshakable confidence and inspiration. And so, with the help of his faithful Toto, Albo knew this was his time in history to lead Australia through the apocalypse.
Festival KingDOM
Artist: Christina Currey
Festival KingDOM', 2026, is an acrylic painting celebrating Australian DJ Dom Dolla and the joy of festival culture. A beacon for mosh-pit pilgrims, he rules the Beyond the Valley midnight countdown, ushering in the New Year through sweat, smiles and sub-bass. Glowing doof sticks reference a cheeky, beloved Aussie novelty, with pun-filled signs shimmering above the crowd. Green lasers slice the night as the DJ's raised hands seem to reach out, pulling bodies together as one.
Fungal Rotters
Artist: Cindy Mortyn
Erin's sweater has become mycelium avenging the fungal world for the reputational damage done by her infamous dinner. In the end we will all be food for fungi.
Gout to G.O.A.T
Artist: John Skillington
The beaming Gout went viral as a 16-year-old tearing down the Brisbane track with a 10.29 over 100 metres. Just turning 18 Gout Gout is now pitting himself against the world's fastest with LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 well within his grasp. To put Gout's achievements into perspective, Usain Bolt's records were attained in his late twenties.
Hamish And
Artist: Bianca Currey
Hamish Blake is a familiar Australian figure most often encountered in states of mischief and mirth. ‘Hamish And’, however, presents him with ceremonial seriousness, adopting the posture of a devoted culinary custodian. Referencing his ‘Cake Time’ rituals with his children in 2025, this work reveals an alternate instinct: careful presentation and reverence for the childlike artefact. The cake, naïve and radiant, which serves as a playful homage and stand-in for his partner in crime, Andy.
Houston, We Have A Problem
Artist: Julia Davis
Ripping up the forest, destroying the farm,
Bowens fanatical obsession, is cause for alarm.
Billions spent on subsidies, millions sent O/S,
Pollies grabbing benefits, spending to excess.
Albo's not listening, tensions abound,
Telling a few porkys, passing the bubbles around.
The chinese are circling, imports pouring in,
But handsome Boy thinks, fine by him.
Toto's always there, by his side,
Now too Jodie, his new bride.
I Want To Punch Your Face
Artist: Megan Chung
No one dares to mention Bob Katter's heritage around him. He has punched blokes for saying that because it irritates him. He is a proud Aussie, green and gold with kangaroos in the backyard and cockatoos in his trees. He may have a flag somewhere with some white and red with a tree in the middle, but no one ask him, because it will irritate him and punch you in the face.
I Yam Warnin' Ya!
Artist: Rob Caldwell
The famous cartoon sailor Popeye is wise-cracking and loyal, with a volcanic temper. The only real difference between him and Bob Katter is that Katter has never claimed to crack open a tin of spinach and instantly grow forearms the size of wheat silos whereas Popeye has never threatened to punch a journalist.
(The original Popeye is out of copyright - not sure about Bob).
In the year Twenty-Five, 25
Artist: Stephen Hardwick
In the year 2025 the opposition leader did not survive. Sussan Ley and Barney could not agree. To achieve Barney chose to leave. In the year Twenty-Five they all connive. The share market takes a dive. On trade Trump takes a dump. Kevin Rudd he would like to thump. In the year Twenty-Five will AUKUS survive? The choices we make to stay alive! Energy we must choose . Get it wrong we all lose! In the year Twenty Twenty-Five.
Is it cooked? "Actually Brilliant"
Artist: Shane Dunne
No such things as a free lunch, it always comes at a price.
It's a long way to the shop (if you want a sausage roll)
Artist: Gabriella Brehm
Angus Young is the oringinal lead guitarist of AC/DC. At 70 years of age he's still TNT dynamite on stage. The iconic song 'It's a long way to the top (if you wanna rock'n'roll)' describes a band trying to make it in the music industry. Assie humour changed the lyrics, changing the songs goal into a simple errand. My art captures an older Angus shuffling to the bakery, with his walking frame. Here's hoping Angus makes it to the shop and enjoys eating his sausage roll. He definately deserves it.
Katter's Fried Kaftas
Artist: Mark Bernard
Katter's Fried Kafta's, 2026, Mark Bernard: This artwork turns a fiery public outburst into a mock fast?food empire, Katter’s Fried Kaftas. A bucket of heroic kaftas and the slogan “mouth punchin’ flavour” deliver playful satire, transforming political bluster into a gloriously over?seasoned pop?art parody of culture, identity, and commercial excess.
KICKING GOALS
Artist: Simon Schneider
At the ripe old age of 22. Mary plays for the Australian national team and the English Women's Super League club Manchester City.
She also made history as the first professional footballer (soccer player) to walk the runway in Paris for the L'Oréal Paris "Le Défilé" show during Paris Fashion Week in September 2025
Lady Ali of France
Artist: Phil Henderson
“and lo… the lady did slay the angry potato with a becalmed gaze and sound policy. She united the people of Dickson" championing their common values instead of demonising immigrants, the disabled and the poor. All hail Lady Ali of France.
Moaner Lifer
Artist: Michael Mack
The look of innocence, the wry smile. Can you believe that? Beef Wellington, single serves, with a secret ingredient. A game of roulette with the plates, better bet on the pink. The dumping of a Dehydrator led her to the Incarcerator. Now she’s dressed in garbs of green, closeted away, never to be seen. Not mutsh-room in there. Erin Patterson's fate was cooked by her own recipe.
Mole
Artist: Louise Sweeney
Hi my names Gladys and my mum and dad think I'm completely done with Darryl, because Dominic said the other day, and he goes I think you can do better. So I told him that he can rack off because I'm totally not dating Darryl.
Muddy Waters (Come on in, the water's fine)
Artist: Judy Nadin
This political romance requires a hygiene warning. My painting captures Barnaby Joyce testing the muddy waters of Pauline Hanson's rusty old bathtub, in a scene that no one asked for (sorry!!). After weeks of the will I, won't I public teasing from Barnaby, he finally joined One Nation in December 2025. Was it political strategy? Or was it Pauline's steak sandwich that finally tipped Barnaby over the edge?
The rubber duck, clearly the smartest one in the room watches in horror, hoping someone pulls the plug.
no good?
Artist: Phil Meatchem
This painting depicts Albo when he returned from the U.S. All confidence and rock n roll. But the choice of T Shirt? Didn't go down too well.
Not mushroom in gaol
Artist: Duncan Sutherland
Season a beef fillet with salt and pepper. Sear quickly in hot oil until browned, then cool. Brush with mustard. Finely chop mushrooms and cook dry until paste-like; cool. Lay prosciutto on cling film, spread mushrooms, place beef, and wrap tightly. Chill. Roll puff pastry, unwrap beef, wrap, seal, and egg-wash. Chill again. Bake at 200°C until golden and internal temperature reaches medium-rare. Serve to family.
Paint Me Like One of your French Girls
Artist: Mel Bling
Paint Me Like One of Your French Girls is a playful parody of the Titanic pose, with Celeste Barber reclining in full faux-glamour. Romance is interrupted by real life: her phone buzzes with a call from “hot hubby,” while a Woolies Rewards card adorns her neck- because nothing says modern icon like loyalty points. Her trademark slightly awkward smile skewers celebrity, beauty culture and hero worship and celebrates Celeste’s gift- reminding us that even cultural icons still scan their groceries.
Portrait of a Wet Twistie
Artist: Russell Austin
When Luke McGregor sends his wife a dick pic, a wet twistie comes to his mind! Self deprecating and hilarious, Luke makes us laugh at ourselves with him. It's the small things in this lifetime that matter most.
Rub a Dub Dub
Artist: Michael Mack
Three men in a tub. The Aukus deal is vague with unknowns and big egos. Trump is full of it, and diplomacy requires that we must tap into that. Trump is in the conning-tower, doing exactly that. Albo and Starmer are below, they need to keep shovelling in the money, to get reactions. These could be tariffic explosions as bubbles burst. The submarines we get from this deal may not be what we envisioned, screws are already loose, and things can drop off. Are we expected to just putter along?
Sally's oval
Artist: Chris Roe
Sally Shipard made her debut for the Matildas at the 2004 Olympics, represented Australia at two World Cups, and will soon have an oval in Wagga Wagga’s CBD named in her honour. The name of disgraced former cricketer Michael Slater was removed in 2024 and instead, Sally’s pioneering contribution to women’s football will be celebrated in her hometown. Today, Sally is a carpenter, a marriage celebrant, a cancer survivor, an advocate for mental health and an inspiration to a new generation.
Self Reflection
Artist: Michelle Commandeur
Who's looking at who? Be careful what you say, because blokes have been punched in the mouth for that.
Time for a little self-reflection, perhaps.
Sick of it
Artist: Alicia Huddy
There was a comment about twenty-five-cent grocery bags not holding together.
So here is a bag, held carefully, doing its very best.
It carries what it's been given until it can't anymore, until the weight tells the truth and everything spills.
Sometimes the smallest things are asked to hold the most, and gravity always has the final word.
Slippery Slopes and Public Funds
Artist: Catherine Morgan
This satirical work exposes the uneasy overlap between public duty and private privilege, using the symbolism of a taxpayer-funded ski trip to question political accountability. Through irony and humour, it asks whether actions that technically follow the rules truly align with community expectations of fairness, inviting viewers to reflect on power, privilege and the ethical responsibilities of public office.
Some Legacy
Artist: Lucy Hersey
Premier Allan thanks dought-stricken Farmers and CFA volunteers of Victoria for paying for the Metro Tunnel with funds raised via the Emergency Services Levy.
Take your pick
Artist: Darren CURL Marks
Inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2025 I’ve never met Tim, only observed him from afar, taken in his music, read his writings and listened to his words. He seems like an interesting fella, forthright with his flaws and challenges of character. Managing an acute artistic sensitivity would not be the easiest task. Anxious and gifted in equal measure. As the great Bon Scott once sang “I tell you, folks, it’s harder than it looks”
That's not a snake - That's a snake
Artist: Simon Schneider
Robert Irwin(Natures golden boy) fronted an ad campaign for Bonds underwear. It was wild and smoldering
attracting a lot of commentary. Some comments controversial gifting cartoonists visual gold.
The Art of the Squeel
Artist: Jamie Congdon
Kevin drives away pretending not to see the final confirming gesture by Don... no Deal!
its a political realignment at least by Rudd...that there will be no deal...
The Body Keeps Score
Artist: Judy Nadin
In 2025, Paul Kelly turned 70 and dropped his 30th studio album Seventy. I painted this caricature to honour the musician who has been so much a part of our lives. 'The Body keeps Score' is a song from this album ... the lines on his face telling as many stories as his music.
The Boxer
Artist: Joanne (JoJo) Skillington
In the clearing stands a pollie
and a fighter by his trade.
And he curses the reminders
of every bloke that questioned him,
on family,
All lies and jests,
Still a man hears what he wants to hear and disregards the rest.
Lie, lie, lie, lie.
(with apologies to Paul Simon and Lewis Carroll)
The Porcelain Bench
Artist: Bronwyn Berg
The Daily motion of four notables makes for a royal flush at the best seat in the house. In jest, Anthony contemplates his next overseas trip, surprisingly after the recent double ‘Shirtgate’ faux par, donning a Hawaiian shirt at a Pacific Island forum, and that t-shirt. A joy to behold! Then there’s Barnaby wondering if Pauline’s steak was more unbranded than the cheap toastie maker used to cook it, or is he in the closet after going dry from those public benders? Meanwhile Pauline, pants down is not letting go of the tissue and Sussan’s just simply not getting it!
Trumpet of Flatulence
Artist: Phil Henderson
Clive Palmer you goose
(Thinks we are American)
Blow it out yer arse.
Wipe Out
Artist: Jamie Congdon
This is a forensic depiction of Peter Dutton attempting amazing manoeuvres on a flimsy surf board made of half thought out ideas as the avalanche of red votes overwhelms him and so he bids a bubbly farewell after a complete wipe out losing his dignity and gets sand where the sun dont shine...