The Paddington Art Prize is a $30,000 National acquisitive prize, awarded annually for a painting inspired by the Australian landscape. Established in 2004 by Arts Patron, Marlene Antico OAM, this National prize takes its place among the country’s most lucrative and highly coveted painting prizes.

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The prize encourages the interpretation of the landscape as a significant contemporary genre, its long tradition in Australian painting as a key contributor to our national ethos, and is a positive initiative in private patronage of the arts in Australia.

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Marlene Antico OAM, created the Paddington Art Prize in order to assist with the monetary difficulties that often impede artists from showcasing their works. As an art student, gallery owner and volunteer guide at the AGNSW for over 10 years, she has underscored her commitment to supporting contemporary Australian artists, aware, of the financial concerns that prevent many artists from devoting themselves entirely to their art practice.

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In 2017, Chris Antico, Marlene’s son joined as Co-sponsor of the prize, enabling its continued growth. 

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Marlene Antico OAM was awarded her Order of Australia in 2017 for her service to the Arts and to the community of Woollahra. 

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In 2024, Marlene handed over the financial responsibility of the Paddington Art Prize to her son Chris Antico now Principal Sponsor and the entire operations to her daughter Pia Antico in the role of Head of Operations & Stakeholder Engagement.  Marlene remains Founder and Co-Sponsor. 

Also, integral to the Paddington Art Prize Team, Marlene's granddaughter Izzy overseeing web development and graphic design; as well as  Kathryne Grigor in her role as Facilitator of the Annual Exhibition of National Finalists, along with Joan Morrison-Swan coordinating the volunteers for exhibition installation & dismantle.

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The Paddington Art Prize continues to help foster the careers of contemporary Australian artists and remains dedicated to supporting artists to realise their visions and be equipped to forge long-term artistic careers. 
In 2025, the Paddington Art Prize expanded to include the concurrent Young Paddo Art Prize for an A4 painting on paper inspired by the Australian Landscape.  
In 2026,  off the back of the successful launch of the youth prize,  a third concurrent Sculpture prize inspired by the Australian Landscape has opened for entries. 

The three groups of National Finalists will exhibit together providing artists and art patrons a comprehensive platform celebrating the diverse Australian Landscape. 
 

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