Bay of Plenty artists are being encouraged to turn their creativity into climate conversations as entries open for Envirohub BOP’s 2026 Climate Canvas art competition.

Open to artists of all ages from Tauranga, the Western Bay of Plenty and Rotorua, this year’s competition is centred on the theme Precious Resources.

“This year’s theme invites artists to think about what we so easily take for granted – the water we drink, the soil we grow in, the air we breathe, even the fabric we wear and throw away,” Envirohub BOP project coordinator Te Ara Dirkse said.

“It’s also a chance to celebrate the resources that don’t always get noticed – community, time, biodiversity, and the knowledge passed down through generations, including mātauranga Māori and kaitiakitanga.”

Dirkse said the competition provided a powerful outlet for people to express their thoughts and emotions about climate change.

“Art is such a great way to express things that words can’t do alone.

“I started Climate Canvas last year to give people space to really voice how they feel about climate change. It’s such an intense subject, and so many of us feel downhearted about it.”

Selwyn Jones’s artwork won first place in 2025.

Dirkse said the competition was about transforming those feelings into something that could inspire others.

“This competition gives people a way to communicate their feelings and use that to move, persuade and get people thinking.”

Artists are encouraged to interpret the theme in their own unique way and can enter original 2D or 3D works mounted on canvas or board, up to 55cm x 71cm in size.

Ten finalists will be selected to exhibit their work at Tauranga’s Cargo Shed from September 17-20, where members of the public will be invited to vote for the People’s Choice Award.

Winners will be announced at an awards evening on September 20, before the finalist exhibition travels to Carlton Gallery in Katikati for a second showing in October and November.

Prize money includes $800 for first place, $400 for second, $200 for third, and a $300 People’s Choice Award.

Climate Canvas is part of Envirohub BOP’s Climate Action Festival, which runs from September 14-20 across the Bay of Plenty.

Entries opened on July 15 and close on August 31. Finalists will be announced on September 3.

For the full artist brief and online entry form, visit envirohub.org.nz/programmes/climate-action-festival.