AUSTRALIA’S most celebrated portrait prize is on display at Shepparton Art Museum until November 1, and alongside the Archibald Prize 2026, SAM has a range of programs to delight people of all ages.
Little art lovers can explore the Archibald Prize with a Children’s Trail and free activity booklet, exploring activities that encourage children to look closer and connect with portraits in the exhibition.
SAM Spring Camp is back in full swing, with artistic activities and workshops during the school holidays. The Mirror Me Clay Self-Portraits workshop on September 30 takes inspiration from Camille Olsen-Ormandy’s vanity portrait in the Archibald Prize 2026 and gets kids creating their own ceramic self-portrait.
The Paint Your Person workshop on October 2 invites kids to paint their parents, inspired by Loribelle Spirovski’s finger-painted portrait of Daniel Johns in the Archibald Prize 2026.
SAM Club Term 4 resumes October 5, with kids in Years 2-6 participating in a dynamic after-school workshop series led by artist Greg Beckenham exploring Archibald Prize-inspired portraiture, before discovering the possibilities of textile art with artist Judith Butler.
Toddlers can participate in a creative playtime on October 8, with hands-on sensory art activities.
For the adults, don’t miss SAM Deep Dives: The Rise of Hollywood with Dr Wendy Haslem (October 11), exploring cinema and celebrity culture, followed by a classic film screening, or the chance to delve deeper into the Archibald Prize 2026 and meet the finalists with SAM Talks: Beyond the Portrait (October 17-18).
Bar SAM will also return to the rooftop terrace on October 16.
Adults looking to unleash their creativity can take part in Portrait Painting with Carmel Robertson, suitable for beginners and those wishing to develop their painting skills.
Bookings for SAM programs are required. To explore the full program, book or learn more, go to sheppartonartmuseum.com.au/events
