10 July 2026
Helpmann Academy is delighted to announce Ngarrindjeri ceramic artist Tiarnie Edwards as the recipient of the First Nations Award 2026.
The First Nations Award 2026, presented by Helpmann Academy and generously supported by SA Power Networks, has provided $5,000 to support Tiarnie Edwards’ transformative ceramics residency in Jingdezhen, China. There, they will create new work, learn from master ceramicists, develop new technical skills, and bring this knowledge back to strengthen their practice.
“The opportunity to travel with our First Nations ceramics team is such a special event, to experience Jingdezhen’s history of ceramics is a privilege, and the possibilities for my own practice from this experience, supported by Helpmann Academy, are endless and I’m excited to bring the outcomes back home.”
Tiarnie Edwards, First Nations Award recipient 2026
Tiarnie Edwards @mud_wizzard
Partner Institution: Adelaide University
(University of South Australia)
Support journey:
Helpmann Academy Graduate Exhibition 2024
JamFactory Award at the Helpmann Academy Graduate Exhibition 2024
Helpmann Academy fab Studio Residency 2024
Helpmann Academy Stobie Pole Project 2024
JamFactory Residency 2024
Tiarnie Edwards is a Ngarrindjeri artist based on Kaurna Country working in ceramics. Tiarnie graduated from the University of South Australia in 2023 then participating in Helpmann Academy’s Graduate Exhibition in 2024 and PICA’s Hatched National Graduate Exhibition. Their practice focuses on exploration of Aboriginal identities within contemporary society and the intersections between identity, culture, and politics. Their hand-built figures embody Blak joy contradicting stereotypes through cute aesthetics and humour. Tiarnie has continued to exhibit in numerous exhibitions as well as working as an arts worker within the Aboriginal arts sector also writing and curating shows specifically for emerging First Nations artists.
“The Helpmann Academy First Nations Award highlights the depth of First Nations creative talent in South Australia. SA Power Networks is proud to support an initiative that recognises excellence and provides meaningful opportunities for artists at an important stage of their careers.”
Anthony von der Borch, Partnerships and Events Manager, SA Power Networks
Huge congratulations, Tiarnie!
The First Nations Award is proudly supported by SA Power Networks.
Image credits: (1) Tiarnie Edwards. Photo: Cara O’Dowd, courtesy of the APY Art Centre Collective. (2) Tiarnie Edwards, Sacred Rage. Photo: Connor Photography. (3) Tiarnie Edwards, Country V Commonwealth, Kumarangk, 2026. Photo: Connor Photography. (4) Tiarnie Edwards, Land Back. Photo: Connor Photography. (5) Tiarnie Edwards, Cocky. Photo: Andy Francis, courtesy of the APY Art Centre Collective. (6) Tiarnie Edwards. Photo: Cara O’Dowd, courtesy of the APY Art Centre Collective.