Paolo Tavuzzi Award

Mosman Art Gallery and Mosman Art Society are delighted to announce the inaugural Paolo Tavuzzi Award, a new annual award established to support the next generation of artists as they transition from study into professional practice.

Valued at $5,000, the Paolo Tavuzzi Award will be presented annually for a period of ten years to a graduating student from an accredited art school in Sydney or New South Wales. The award is intended to provide meaningful financial support at a pivotal moment in an emerging artist’s career, helping the recipient take the next step towards establishing their professional practice.

Unlike project-based grants or awards with prescribed outcomes, the Paolo Tavuzzi Award offers flexibility. Recipients are encouraged to invest the funds in the way that will best support their artistic development and career aspirations. Whether that means creating new work, securing studio space, purchasing equipment, undertaking research, pursuing professional opportunities, or simply giving themselves the time and resources to focus on their practice, the choice is theirs.

The award is named in honour of the late Paolo Tavuzzi, a renowned designer and member of the Mosman Art Society.

Born in Trieste, Italy, Paolo emigrated to Australia as a child and went on to build an outstanding fifty-year career in architecture and design. Trained as a draftsman, he became a leading designer with Peddle Thorp and Walker, and later Peddle Thorp and Harvey, contributing to some of the most ambitious architectural projects across Australia and Asia. Following his professional career, Paolo dedicated himself to his lifelong passion for art.

Supported by Paolo’s widow, Catherine Tavuzzi, the award recognises Paolo’s creative achievements, lifelong commitment to the arts, and belief in the importance of nurturing artistic talent.

Application Requirements

Applicants are asked to articulate how the Paolo Tavuzzi Award would assist them in establishing their professional career following graduation.

The successful recipient will also be required to:

  • Be available for the announcement of the award and associated media opportunities.
  • Present a short talk in 2027 outlining how the award contributed to the development of their artistic practice and professional career.
  • Read the full guidelines here.

Award Value

$5,000

A single award. Complete flexibility.

An investment in emerging artists at a defining moment in their careers.

For the Art You Make Next.

The next work. The next opportunity. The next chapter of your practice.