Art Competition 2026

The Credit Union Art Competition is back for 2026 and South Dublin Credit Union is calling on local artists of all ages to take part in one of Ireland’s longest running and most inclusive art initiatives. The competition invites people from all walks of life to express themselves through creativity, with this year’s theme A World of Colour.

We encourage participants to use art to explore the colours, experiences and perspectives that make our world unique. Whether inspired by nature, culture or imagination, entrants are encouraged to interpret the theme in their own way. From bright, bold landscapes to subtle moments of everyday beauty, "A World of Colour" offers endless opportunities for artists to tell their stories through creativity.

The Credit Union Art Competition caters for all ages ranging from 7 years & under to 18 years & over, across all corners of the island of Ireland.

This free competition requires entrants to draw or paint posters using pencil, charcoal, pen or ink, felt tip marker, crayon, pastel, water colours, gouache, acrylics, oils, poster colour or collage.

Posters are required to be either A3 (420 x 297 mm) or A2 (594 x 420mm) and landscape orientation. Portrait orientation entries will be disqualified from adjudication. 

Now in its 43rd year, the Credit Union Art Competition continues to support and promote creativity at every stage of life. From early learners to lifelong artists, the competition celebrates the power of art to connect, inspire and bring communities together.

The Credit Union Art Competition has been a feature of life for young and old throughout Ireland for decades and South Dublin Credit Union are delighted to be a part of it again this year. This competition plays an important role in promoting the culture of art, a vital cog in our national identity.

Categories:

There are two categories represented in the Credit Union Art Competition:
General Category and Additional Needs Category, under the following breakdown of ages

• 7 years & under
• 8 – 10 years inclusive
• 11 – 13 years inclusive
• 14 – 17 years inclusive
• Adult - 18 years and over

Ages as at 31^st December 2026.

With an additional category called Group, which allows for group entries. All group entries will be judged together – while no age categories apply. 
The Additional Needs Category encourages participants with physical or intellectual disabilities to submit entries in free expression without the restriction of the competition’s official theme if they wish.

Judging process:

The Credit Union Art Competition consists of three stages.

• Stage 1 is run solely by local credit unions around the country.
• Stage 2 moves on to Chapter/Regional level, which are groups that cover the island of Ireland
• Stage 3 of the Competition is the National Final, which is judged by independent artists on behalf of the Irish League of Credit Unions.

The dates for each stage of the competition are as follows:

Confirmation of prizes for the 2026 Artwork Competition at each stage will be confirmed as soon as they are available.

You can download the rules and entry form for the 2026 Credit Union Art competition here, or you can pop in to our office at 63-65 Lower Kilmacud Road, Stillorgan to pick up an entry form.