At UQ, we celebrate the diverse identities and experiences that make up our community. Art of Belonging invites all UQ students to creatively express what belonging means to them and how we can foster a more inclusive, welcoming environment for all. Whether you're an artist, photographer, digital designer or just enjoy creative expression, we invite you to submit a artwork for our first student competition and exhibition, hosted by Student Central.
Applications are now open and will close 11:59pm AEST, 19 September, 2025.
Art of belonging
Show us what belonging means to you as a student at UQ and have the chance to display your artwork in Student Central. We are now inviting both print and digital artwork submissions in the following categories:
- UQ Icons (Consider what makes UQ unique: Architecture, wildlife, events, etc)
- People and places
- Relationships that matter
Who can apply?
All currently enrolled undergraduate, postgraduate and research students across all UQ campuses are eligible to apply.
How to apply
All submissions:
Complete the application form available here
Please submit a separate application form for each entry.
Physical submissions (ie. Print artworks)
If you are physically delivering your submission to Student Central, please do so within the nominated collection period of 9am to 1pm from Monday 1 to Friday 19 September.
Please provide the following information alongside your submission:
- Full name
- Student number
- Email address
- Artwork title
- Brief description of your artwork (maximum 300 words)
What can I submit?
Print artworks
- Canvas, poster board, paper, cardboard, etc
- Minimum size: A5
- Maximum size: A1
- Examples of medium: Painting, photography, sketch or drawing, collage, etc.
Physical submissions can be dropped off at Student Central (Building 42), during the nominated collection period (9am to 1pm from Monday 1 to Friday 19 September).
Digital artworks
Accepted file types:
- .JPG
- .PNG
Acceptable file size:
- Minimum file size: 12MB (Uncompressed RGB. For example, A5 - 1748 x 2480px)
- Maximum file size: 200MB (Uncompressed RGB. For example, A1: 7016 x 9933px)
Please note: Videos or interactive content will not be accepted.
Please upload your digital artwork to your preferred online platform and submit the URL in the application form. Please read the terms and conditions before you apply.
Requirements
- Title of the piece
- Date completed
- Short artist statement about piece (maximum 300 words)
2025 Theme: Expressions of belonging – what does it mean to you?
Categories (for both print and digital):
Print: Places that inspire, UQ Icons, Relationships that matter
All finalists receive a certificate of recognition and are eligible for category and grand prizes.
Need financial support to enter?
We want to enable all students the opportunity to participate in the art showcase so financial support of up to $300.00 is available for students facing financial barriers to submitting their work.
Applicants must complete a brief application outlining their needs and intended use of funds and provide a mood board or outline of their artwork.
Please apply for financial assistance here if hardship would prevent you from participating.
Terms and conditions
Please note, terms and conditions apply. Click the link below to see full terms and conditions to entry.