August 19, 2026
Ben Quilty, Guan Wei works among treasures available at UOW Art Auction
Public exhibition features pieces by award-winning artists, UOW alumni and creative arts staff
The University of Wollongong (UOW) has long been known for its vibrant artistic legacy built by generations of artists woven throughout the fabric of campus life. Now, the School of Creative Arts and Humanities has revived the long tradition of raising funds through a special exhibition and auction of artworks with proceeds supporting Visual Arts and Design graduates to present their works nationally.
Over two weeks, art lovers and collectors are invited to browse the eclectic mix of works spanning decades, styles and mediums, donated by leading Australian artists, distinguished alumni and award-winning staff. The exhibition in the School of Creative Arts and Humanities Gallery (Building 25) will culminate in a public auction on Thursday 27 August.
“This auction is for everyone, whether you’ve been collecting art for decades or you’re interested in buying your first original artwork. Every purchase helps support the next generation of talent from our Creative Arts program,” said Associate Professor Jo Law, Head of the School of Creative Arts and Humanities.
“We are grateful for the generosity from our art community and excited to give the public a chance to explore these amazing works and hopefully, find a one-of-a-kind piece to love.”
Archibald Prize-winner Ben Quilty, renowned Chinese-Australian artist Guan Wei, and acclaimed UOW alumni Chris Zanko and Rob Howe have all donated pieces to this year’s auction. The exhibition also features contributions from UOW’s own visual arts staff and other respected artists from the Australian arts community.
In 2025, proceeds from the previous art auction supported UOW graduate and Dharug artist Tom Duffy to attend the Hatched: National Graduate Show in Perth where he won the prestigious Dr Harold Schenberg Arts Award.
The only non-metro university in NSW to offer a Bachelor of Creative Arts, UOW’s Creative Arts program has been running for more than 40 years.
“This exhibition tells a story about art and culture at the heart of the University. This is a story of how Creative Arts at UOW are enriched by our connections with the local community over the past four decades,” Associate Professor Law said.
The exhibition and silent bidding are running from 10 am to 4 pm daily, from Wednesday 12 August, in the Building 25 Gallery. The live auction will take place at 12.45 pm on Thursday, 27 August.