Australian Wearable Art Festival opens entries for 2025

The Australian Wearable Art Festival (AWAF) has put out a call to artists and designers worldwide to push the boundaries between art and fashion at its 2025 event and, with exciting new additions to the event format, festival organisers say the vibe is high.

Set to take place on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast from August 8-9, 2025, the Council sponsored two-day festival will offer a significantly expanded prize pool, fresh categories, enhanced runway features as well as renowned artist Rachel Burke, known for dressing Cate Blanchett and Harry Styles, set to join next year’s judging panel.

Australian Wearable Art Festival Co-founder and Curator Wendy Roe said entries are open, with a submission deadline of 5pm on 31 January 2025 and, while final creations can be completed by July, early application is essential.

“After four very successful years building momentum for this unique platform, Australian Wearable Art Festival has decided to change it up a little,” Ms Roe said.

“With an expanded prize pool of $15,000 and our Supreme Winner walking away with $5,000, the Festival in 2025 will offer artists even more incentives to participate.

“This year also introduces two brand-new categories, Elements of Nature and Abstract Form, alongside popular returning categories Trashion and Avant Garde. Additional awards will recognise Textile Innovation and Sustainability, encouraging creators to explore bold and eco-friendly designs.

“In 2025, the festival's iconic 27-metre-runway will feature enhanced lighting options, ranging from bold and dramatic to soft and subtle effects, allowing artists to elevate their creations further.

“We’re dedicated to helping our artists forge pathways to opportunities, whether that’s through events like the Big Pineapple Festival or participating in our touring gallery exhibition, ‘A Wearable Canvas’ – our goal is to open doors to potential work opportunities and mentorships.”

“We are also, of course, thrilled to have renowned fashion designer and wearable artist Rachel Burke joining us on next year’s judging panel. It’s a key priority of the Festival to connect our designers with industry powerhouses and there are very few people in Australia with more successful wearable art careers than Rachel.”

Renowned for her vibrant, tactile wearable artworks worn by celebrities like Cate Blanchett and Harry Styles, Brisbane-based artist, designer and author Rachel Burke is known for her imaginative use of naive craft materials.

Ms Burke said, on the festival runway in 2025, she will be looking for pieces that tell a story, spark curiosity and use unconventional materials in their making process.

“I’m excited to see artists embrace bold textures, eco-friendly approaches and conceptual silhouettes that push the boundaries,” Ms Burke said.

“A festival like AWAF can really be a game-changer for an artist’s career.

“It’s not just about showcasing talent – it’s a chance to connect with fellow creatives, industry professionals and an audience who truly appreciates the craft.

“The exposure and networking can open doors to collaborations, commissions and exciting new projects.

“Wearable art isn’t just about fashion, it’s about storytelling. Every piece has the power to communicate an emotion, concept or message, and that’s what makes it so exciting to me!”

December will also see the first release of tickets for Australian Wearable Art Festival including VIP access, offering exclusive front-row seats, a backstage pass, and lounge experiences for all four shows.

A new ‘Preview Performance’ show, priced at a more affordable rate, will also be available, providing an exciting opportunity for students, concession holders and new audiences to experience the festival at a more accessible price point.

The 2025 Australian Wearable Art Festival is now accepting entries. Artists and designers can submit their concepts by visiting the festival’s website, where they’ll find submission guidelines, category details, and application forms: www.australianwearableart.com.au/designer-entry

This festival is supported by Sunshine Coast Council through the Emerging Events category of the Major Events Sponsorship Program.