About the Conflux Art Exhibition

Conflux has been proud to host an art exhibition celebrating the many talented visual artists within the speculative fiction space since its inception. Our first art show was run in 2004 by author Nicole Murphy (aka Elizabeth Dunk), and continues to grow and evolve as we broaden our horizons. Since 2023, Conflux's art show has been coordinated by Canberran visual artist Red Saunders.

2026 Theme: 'Beyond the Abyss'

'Beyond the Abyss,' to me as an artist, is a reference to speculative fiction's ability to reach through the abyss in a multitude of ways. I found this theme incredibly interesting, as it could be read in a multitude of ways. On one side, an audience may reach into speculative fiction from their own abyss - whether that abyss is a boring workday, a rough patch in life, or a chronic illness. Another reading could be that the audience feels the reach of the author from the abyss of a dark and compelling story - with any number of themes that could be explored by the dark and creative mind.

For the judging of artworks against their relevancy to this theme, an artist should assess what the abyss could be, and how one may reach beyond it. Artists are encouraged to recall SF stories they have consumed in which the characters or the setting goes beyond an abyss, and what occurred on that journey.

Categories

A winner is selected for each of the sections in the categories below based on the listed criteria, the reception of the audience, and the informed judgment of the Artist in Residence. 

​Amateur

Works by any artist over the age of 17 who may still be developing their skills and artistic voice, or who just want to have a go at exhibiting their work!
Amateur 2D Artwork
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Any 2D artwork by an amateur artist. Judged on creativity, technique, and how the work explores the theme.

Amateur 3D Artwork
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Any artwork in a 3D format (e.g. sculpture, 3D printing, ceramics, jewellery) within 60cm³, and weighing less than 2kgs.
Judged on creativity, technique, and how imaginatively and legibly the work explores the theme.
See also: skillful use of medium, clear concept, visually engaging.

Amateur Print of Digital Artwork
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Any artwork in a printed format (e.g. print of photograph or digital composition) within 60x60cm. These works are preferably framed or matted for display.
Judged on creativity, technique, and how imaginatively and legibly the work explores the theme.
See also: creative use of technology, clear concept, visually engaging'

The E.G. Harvey Award (Best in Show)

Artworks from any category may be eligible for this award.
The E. G. Harvey Award for Australian Speculative Fiction Art
This award is for the best original visual artwork in the show, produced by an Australian artist in the previous 12 months. The work will demonstrate exceptional technique, imagination, and thematic resonance with the theme. The value of the E.G. Harvey Award is AU$500 (non-acquisitive).

​Under 17s

Works by any artist 17 years old or younger. Whilst we understand these artists may be working at an advanced skill level, we wish to emphasise the works of young people in their own category,
Under 17s 2D Artwork
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Any artwork in a 2D format (e.g. painting, drawing) within 60cm².
Judged on creativity, effort, and how legibly the work explores theme.

Under 17s 3D Artwork
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Any artwork in a 3D format (e.g. sculpture, 3D printing, ceramics, jewellery) within 60cm³, and weighing less than 2kgs.
Assessed on imagination, construction, and how effectively the piece brings the theme to life in physical form.

Under 17s Print of Digital Artwork
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Any artwork in a printed format (e.g print of photograph or digital composition) within 60cm². These works are preferably framed or matted for display.
Evaluated on originality, visual impact, and how the digital image expresses a bold or curious take on the theme.

Professional

Works in this category must reflect advanced technical skill, artistic maturity, and a cohesive creative vision.
Professional 2D Work​
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Any artwork in a 2D format (e.g. painting, drawing) within 60cm².
Judged on technical excellence, conceptual depth, and how skillfully it engages with the theme.

Professional 3D work
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Any artwork in a 3D format (e.g. sculpture, 3D printing, ceramics, jewellery) within 60cm³, and weighing less than 2kgs.
Judged on technical skill, imaginative form, and the strength with which the work evokes the essence of the theme.

Professional Print of Digital Artwork​
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Any artwork in a printed format (e.g. print of photograph or digital composition) within 60x60cm. These works are preferably framed or matted for display.
Evaluated on technique, composition, visual sophistication, and the extent to which it compellingly communicates the essence of the theme.

Questions or concerns regarding the Art Exhibition? Contact the Conflux Arts Coordinator at [email protected]