The St Columba's Art Prize

Youth Prize winner Indigo Herron with Federal MP Susan Templeman during the Art Prize Opening night.

The grounds of St Columba's Catholic College have been transformed into a fully-fledged exhibition for the first St Columba's Art Prize.

The competition welcomes young and old artists alike from across the country to submit their finest works for exhibition at the Springwood school.

In its 2025 debut the St Columba's Art Prize received 280 entries ranging from every state and territory, which were eventually narrowed down to 73 finalists.

After final decisions from judges the prize winners were revealed on an opening evening on May 2, announced by Federal Member for Macquarie and Special Envoy for the Arts Susan Templeman.

The exhibiton floor in the halls of St Columba's Catholic College

The $10,000 Open Prize, sponsored by FAL Construction, was won by Wentworth Falls artist James Blackwell for his piece "Ataraxia; Stillness Within", a fusion of two-dimensional and sculpture art forms.

A judge critique of the piece said: "James' work invites a contemplative viewing experience, offering  space where structure meets spirit, and the material world is quietly transformed through devotion to process."

Mr Blackwell, represented by Katoomba's Lost Bear Gallery, was "deeply honoured" by the award and was impressed by the other art.

"The introduction of a major new art prize and exhibition in the Blue Mountains is a fantastic development, reflecting the vibrant community of artists who call this region home," he said.

The strong attendance at the opening further demonstrates the community's enthusiasm and commitment to supporting the arts in the Blue Mountains.

The Local Blue Mountains Artist prize of $2000, sponsored by Allenza Architecture, went to Neil Taylor, while the $1000 Youth Prize, sponsored by Belle Property Blaxland, went to St Columba's student Indigo Herron.

Mrs Templeman said: "I commend St Columba's Catholic College for its leadership and inspiration in establishing this prize.

"This event represents so much of what I love about our community: that we put creativity and culture at the heart of our social life, that we value the contribution that our local artists make, and that we believe that everyone has creativity within them."