A much-loved annual fixture of Melbourne’s visual arts calendar featuring 1,000 new works in a range of media and styles by artists of all backgrounds and abilities, the Linden Postcard Show returns this June for its 36th iteration.
For some artists, the Postcard Show is the first time they publicly exhibit their work, while others enter year after year. What excites them all is the opportunity to exhibit their work at Linden New Art, alongside their peers both established and emerging. Colin Lil, winner of the 2025 Henry Abstract Award reflects on his experience:
“I have found the Linden Postcard Show a great way to share my artwork with the community, and to be inspired by the diverse range of creative art displayed by others,” said Emerging artist and 2025 Postcard Show participant, Chloe Kokoris.
“Being awarded The Geoffrey Conaghan and Matthew Erbs Tertiary Prize felt like a recognition of the importance of my contemporary textile practice and encouraged me to continue creating innovative pieces.”
Importantly, the Postcard Show provides a valuable source of income for artists through artworks sales, while revenue from entry fees and commission is invested back into Linden’s exhibition program.
“The Linden Postcard Show is one of the few genuinely open art prizes in Australia. There is no selection process. You pay your entry fee, submit your works, and you’re automatically in the exhibition. As we celebrate our 40th birthday this year, we want the 2026 Postcard Show to be the biggest and best yet,” says Linden New Art’s curator, Hamish Sawyer.
As in previous years, the Linden Postcard Show is proudly supported by local businesses and community members from St Kilda, donating more than 12 cash prizes and vouchers.
Among the highlights are The Hive Milton House People’s Choice Award ($1000 cash) and The Linden New Art Board First Nations Award ($1000 cash) underscoring both Linden and the local community’s commitment to recognising and celebrating diverse artistic voices.
The 36th Linden Postcard Show opens on Saturday 6 June and continues to Saturday 1 August 2026. Entries close Sunday 3 May. For more information and entry guidelines, visit: www.lindenarts.org for details.
Image: Installation view of the 2025 Linden Postcard Show – photo by Astrid Mulder