The winning entries of the 2026 Norval Student Art Prize will go on exhibition at Norval Foundation from 16 June 2026

Opening on Youth Day, the exhibition presents selected artworks from learners across South Africa who participated in this year’s competition, which invited young artists to respond to the theme DREAM.

Inspired by Tanda rima, an exhibition by Portia Zvavahera, the theme encouraged learners to explore ideas connected to imagination, memory, and possibility through their creative work.

The Norval Student Art Prize is open to learners from Grades 1 to 12. Entries are assessed within four age groups: Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Senior Phase, and FET Phase, with winners selected in each category.

According to Norval Foundation, the competition forms part of its broader commitment to supporting arts education, expanding access to the visual arts, and encouraging creative engagement among young people.

The exhibition provides visitors with an opportunity to view artworks created by school learners from a range of age groups and educational backgrounds. By presenting the selected works in a museum setting, the exhibition highlights the role of youth creativity within South Africa’s contemporary cultural landscape.

The exhibition’s opening on Youth Day adds further significance to the presentation, placing a spotlight on the perspectives and creative contributions of young people.

Exhibition Details

Exhibition: Norval Student Art Prize Exhibition 2026

Dates: 16 June 2026 opens

Venue: Norval Foundation

Location: 4 Steenberg Road, Steenberg Estate, Tokai, Cape Town

The exhibition is included as part of the museum’s exhibition programme and can be viewed during normal museum opening hours.