9 by 5 Exhibition

Tiny artworks, big impact. Registrations are now open for the 18th edition of the 9 by 5 Exhibition returning to the Drum Theatre foyer in 2026.

Inspired by the original 1889 Melbourne display featuring Tom Roberts, Charles Conder, Arthur Streeton and Frederick McCubbin, this open-entry program invites artists of all backgrounds across Australia to create works measuring 9 x 5 inches (22.86cm x 12.7cm).

Arts in Greater Dandenong’s adaptation has now become a nationally recognised exhibition that celebrates diversity within the arts community, proving that small things can have a big impact.

Register now for the 9 by 5 exhibition.

Key Details

Open to all arts lovers. From hobbyists, to emerging and established artists from across Australia.
All mediums accepted — Artwork must measure 9 x 5 inches (22.86cm x 12.7cm) only. Please note: 3D artwork not accepted
Registrations open until 11.59pm Sunday 22 February 2026 or until exhibition capacity has been reached
$10 flat rate entry fee for up to two artworks
Exhibition dates: Monday 16 March to Friday 1 May
Prize pool of over $4,000 - see below for more information

Submission of works

Artists are to deliver finished artworks to the Drum Theatre, 226 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong.

Delivery period:

Monday 2 March to Friday 6 March, 10am – 4pm

Posted works must arrive no later than Friday 6 March 2026.

Addressed to:

Drum Theatre
C/O 9 by 5 Exhibition
PO Box 200
Dandenong, 3175 VIC

Please read the full Terms and Conditions and Frequently Asked Questions below carefully before registering.

9 by 5 Terms and Conditions 2026 - 168KB

Register for 9 by 5 2026

9 by 5 exhibition installed in the Drum Theatre Foyer, 2025
9 by 5 exhibition installed in the Drum Theatre Foyer, 2025
Community Connections Award Winner 2025 - Talwinder Singh with his work: Dandenong Butter Factory, acrylic on canvas with palette knife. This award was sponsored by Bendigo Bank Dingley Village Community Bank. Photographer: Carla Gottgens.
Highly Commended Award Winner 2025 - Skye Petho with her work: We Come from Nature, watercolour on recycled timber with ink overlay. This award was sponsored by Holiday Inn Dandenong. Photographer: Carla Gottgens
Best in Show Award Winner 2025 - Ivan Dinsdale with his work: Ferns at Sherbrooke, acrylic on canvas. This award was sponsored by the City of Greater Dandenong. Photographer: Carla Gottgens.
9 by 5 exhibition installed in the Drum Theatre Foyer, 2025
Award Winners at the 9 by 5 exhibition installed in the Drum Theatre Foyer, 2025
9 by 5 exhibition installed in the Drum Theatre Foyer, 2025
People's Choice Award Winner 2025, Adrian Olguin. Nearing Full Carpophore, 2025, oil on wood, 9" x 5"
9 by 5 exhibition installed in the Drum Theatre Foyer, 2025
9 by 5 exhibition installed in the Drum Theatre Foyer, 2025

On

Artwork size restrictions

Artwork must measure 9 x 5 inches (22.8cm x 12.7cm).

If artwork requires framing, frame must not exceed 12 x 8 inches (30.4cm x 20.3cm).

Three-Dimensional artwork will not be accepted.

Who can enter?

Artists from all skill levels are welcome to apply. All artists must be based in Australia. Overseas submissions will not be accepted.

Is there an entry fee?

Yes. Entry fee is $10 per artist for submission of up to two artworks.

When do registrations close?

Registrations close 11.59pm on Sunday 22 February 2026, or until exhibition capacity has been reached.

Are there prizes?

The following prizes will be awarded:

Best in Show – For outstanding artistic excellence. ($2000 prize - includes $1000 cash prize and display of winning artwork in public space for six months)
Community Connections – For artwork that reflects Greater Dandenong’s community spirit ($500 prize. Courtesy of Community Bank Dingley Village)
Highly Commended – For exceptional artistic merit ($750 prize. Courtesy of Greater Dandenong Arts)
Packing Room Prize – Chosen by the exhibiting team ($250 prize. Courtesy of Greater Dandenong Arts)
People’s Choice – Community favourite ($500 prize. Courtesy of Holiday Inn Dandenong). Winner announced Monday 27 April.

When does the artwork need to be delivered?

Artists are to deliver finished artworks to the Drum Theatre, 226 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong.

Delivery period:

Monday 2 March to Friday 6 March, 10am – 4pm

Posted works must arrive no later than Friday 6 March 2026.

Addressed to:

Drum Theatre
C/O 9 by 5 Exhibition
PO Box 200
Dandenong, 3175 VIC

What happens at the conclusion of the exhibition?

Unsold artwork will be returned via post after the conclusion of the exhibition. Sold artwork will be posted to the buyer at the conclusion of the exhibition.