Collin Post Sculpture Award and Longveld Plinth Award

Selected students will work alongside leading artists, fabricators and industry partners through a programme of workshops, mentorship, a residency and professional fabrication processes. The winning artwork will be made of metal, and installed and exhibited on campus for one year.

The award provides hands-on experience in public art, collaboration and professional practice, from initial concept development through to final installation.

Brittany Walker Smith, a Fine Arts doctoral student, is the inaugural recipient of the Collin Post Sculpture Award and Longveld Plinth Award.

Her winning concept One Foot in the Grave, the Other on a Banana Peel will represent a large banana peel. She says the banana peel idea is an extension of previous works she’s done (in materials like felt and glitter) of both every day and luxury objects, with nods to artists like Warhol and Duchamp.

Students who participate will have the opportunity to:

• Develop a metal sculpture concept for a public site on campus
• Attend workshops and mentoring sessions with experienced practitioners
• Work with industry partners and professional fabricators
• Travel to Brisbane, Australia, on a funded residency for the selected student
• The winner will see their artwork professionally fabricated and installed at the University of Auckland

Finalists will receive support developing proposals. The winning student’s sculpture will be professionally fabricated and exhibited on campus for one year. Taking part in the Collin Post Sculpture Award provides:

• Real-world experience in public art and large-scale sculpture
• Professional mentorship and industry connections
• Experience working with engineers, fabricators and curators
• The opportunity to create a permanent public artwork
• A significant and standout project for your professional portfolio

Applications are now closed. Details will be updated when applications re-open in 2027.

For questions about the award, please contact:
Fiona Jack