Kimberley Art & Photographic Prize
Established in 1970, the Kimberley Art and Photographic Prize (KAPP) is one of Australia's most remote art competitions and one of the longest running Art Prizes in Western Australia. Originally facilitated by the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley (SDWK) as the Kimberley Art Prize, it was launched to showcase the artistic talent of residents from the Kimberley region. Over the years, KAPP has evolved into a major cultural event, attracting both emerging and established artists from across the country.
The art prize became an acquisitive award in 1978, with the SDWK adding the winning pieces to its substantial art collection, now featuring works from some of the Kimberley’s most talented artists. In 2012, due to growing interest in photography, the Kimberley Photographic Award (KPA) was created as a separate category, allowing photography to flourish alongside the art prize.
With a $36,000 in Prizes across eleven categories, KAPP has played a significant role in elevating Indigenous art and launching the careers of emerging artists.
The festival now runs for two weeks during the Boab Festival in July, offering a platform for local, regional, and national artists to exhibit their work, and engage with the broader community through exhibitions, workshops, and other cultural activities.
Entries are open until Friday, 15 May 2026. Exhibition runs from 6 - 17 July 2026 at the Derby Airport Terminal, Derby WA.
Key Dates for 2026
Monday, 2 March 2026 Entries open
Friday, 15 May 2026 Final receipt of entry forms
Monday, 25 - 28 May 2026 Artists to deliver their entries to regional collection points
Thursday, 28 May 2026 All artwork sent via post must be en route before this day
Monday, 15 - 20 June 2026 Local drop-off availability (listed below)
Saturday, 4 July 2026 Awards and Opening Night Event
Monday 6 - 17 July 2026 Exhibition open daily - 10:00am-3:00pm
Tuesday, 21 July 2026 People’s choice and Snap & Send winners announced
Monday, 20 - 24 July 2026 Collection of entries from Derby Airport
Monday, 20 July 2026 Courier begin collecting artworks for regional return and postage
Are you visiting the Kimberley this July? You can enter Snap & Send photo into the Kimberley Art and Photographic Prize and have a chance to win a $100.00 gift voucher. Remember, all entries must be Kimberley themed or related.To submit an entry please visit our website at www.kappawards.com.au
