The 2026 Celebrating Joondalup School Art Competition has once again showcased the incredible creativity of students from across the City. This vibrant exhibition brings together a diverse collection of artworks from local schools, each invited to submit up to six pieces inspired by the theme, “Celebrating Joondalup.”
Through their work, students have captured what makes our region special, from community spirit and local landmarks to native flora and fauna, and the places that hold personal meaning for them.
This year saw an exceptionally high standard of entries. Judges recognised both a primary and secondary school winner, along with four highly commended artists.
Award recipients:
- High School Winner: Isabelle Pelham (Prendiville Catholic College)
- Primary School Winner: Lucas Yang (Creaney Primary School)
Highly Commended:
- Noah Simmonds (Joondalup Education Support Centre)
- Sophie Onn (Beldon Primary School)
- Gina Taute (Ocean Reef Senior High School)
- Maddie Locke (Kinross Primary School)
Winners have been notified and City staff look forward to visiting schools in Term 3 to present awards in person.
The success of this year’s competition extends beyond the local exhibition, with both winning artworks in the running to feature in WALGA’s annual Showcase in Pixels.
We encourage visitors to explore the exhibition and celebrate the imagination and talent of Joondalup’s young artists, whose work offers a fresh and inspiring perspective on the community they call home.
Insight into the Winning Artworks
Isabelle Pelham – High School Winner
Isabelle’s work reflects the aspects of Joondalup that matter most to her as a young person. She highlights the City’s unique native flora and fauna alongside popular social spaces such as shopping precincts and Hillarys Boat Harbour. The inclusion of public transport reflects a sense of independence and connection, showing how young people engage with their city.
Judges’ comments:
- Thoughtful subject selection and layered composition
- Strong combination of urban and natural elements
- Clear sense of community
- Detailed portrayal of Carnaby’s black cockatoos
- Recognisable local landmarks and environments
- A beautiful and authentic representation of Joondalup
Lucas Yang – Primary School Winner
Lucas presents Joondalup as a dynamic, interconnected world through a striking spherical perspective. His artwork seamlessly blends modern infrastructure such as libraries, transport networks and bike paths with the natural beauty of wetlands and native wildlife. The inclusion of the City crest and national and Aboriginal flags reinforces themes of identity, unity and respect.
Judges’ comments:
- Excellent use of urban environments
- Effective integration of built and natural elements
- Strong use of colour and texture
- Creative inclusion of the City’s identity
- A vibrant and engaging representation of Joondalup