B’nai B’rith Jewish Youth Art Exhibition

B’nai B’rith Jewish Youth Art Exhibition Celebrates 30 Years with Record Participation and Powerful Community Impact

To celebrate the 30th Annual B’nai B’rith Jewish Youth Art Competition Awards Ceremony, the Glen Eira City Council Gallery was filled with energy and excitement on Sunday, 20 July, as students, families, educators, and art lovers gathered.

This year’s exhibition was the largest and most diverse in the event’s three-decade history, showcasing over 250 artworks submitted by more than 180 Jewish artists in Years 6 to 12 from 18 schools – including, for the first time, interstate school entrants. A surge in participation from students at state schools highlights the growing reach and impact of the competition. The exhibition featured a vibrant collection of works across painting, drawing, portraiture and caricature, photography, sculpture and mixed media.

Ellana Aarons, CEO of B’nai B’rith Victoria and MC at the awards ceremony, stated that “a total of 50 prizes were awarded across multiple age groups and artistic categories, reflecting B’nai B’rith’s commitment to nurturing and recognising the creative talents of young Jewish artists.”

Among the top honours:

The Morrie Gold Prize for Overall Winner was awarded to 13-year-old Amelia Griffin.

The Community Bank Bendigo Bank Caulfield Park Award for Overall Runner-Up went to Milo Friedman.

The Thalia Hakin Memorial Prize, presented by David Southwick MP on behalf of the Gandel Foundation, awarded for the best artwork across Years 6 and 7, to Toby Lopata. 

With more than 1,400 community votes submitted for the People’s Choice Award, Ester Bruce emerged as the clear favourite.

The B’nai B’rith Jewish Youth Art Competition remains a vital platform for nurturing young Jewish artistic talent, promoting cultural pride, and strengthening community connection through creativity.

Ellana went on to acknowledge that “B’nai B’rith’s ability to host this event is made possible only with the support of generous sponsorships and donations, so I call on the community to help ensure this cherished tradition continues for generations to come, by donating to the B’nai B’rith Cultural Fund.” All donations over $2 are tax-deductible and directly support the competition and future exhibitions.

To view all artworks, the complete list of winners and a photo gallery from the Awards Ceremony, please CLICK HERE