MS Plus Virtual Art Show 2026 – Open now
The MS Plus Virtual Art Show 2026, now in its 20th year, provides people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological conditions an opportunity to express their creativity and their unique experiences through art.
We know that art can be a therapeutic tool that helps to connect the mind and body, helping people living with chronic conditions identify and express their feelings, to better manage their condition and improve their daily life.
Whether you identify as an artist or just enjoy creating, this is your chance to slow down and take a moment to explore your inner world.
The MS Plus Virtual Art Show 2026 opened on 25 March 2026 and closes on 8 May 2026.
Enter the 2026 Art Show
Who can enter the MS Virtual Art Show?
Entry is open to people living with MS, their carers and those with other progressive neurological conditions. All types of artworks can be submitted, including paintings, illustrations, sculptures, craft, digital artwork and photography.
Please note: the art show is open to MS Plus clients only. By submitting your entry to the MS Virtual Art Show you agree to be registered as a client of MS Plus. If you have any concerns or queries please reach out to our team on 1800 042 138 or email connect@msplus.org.au
Each year, one of the artists participating in the MS Virtual Art Show will receive the prestigious Barry Allen Art Award. The late Barry Allen was a man who loved painting and received great comfort in art and music.
We also have a dedicated prize for carers. Friends, family and carers of people living with MS or other neurological conditions in NSW, ACT, TAS and VIC are welcome to enter.
We also have a new prize for young people aged 17 years and under who have a parent, grandparent or guardian living with MS or another neurological condition in NSW, ACT, TAS and VIC.
Who can enter the MS Virtual Art Show?
The full range of awards and prizes on offer include:
- The Barry Allen Art Award: $350
- Highly Commended – Painting: $100
- Highly Commended – Drawing/Illustration: $100
- Highly Commended – Sculptural/Craft Artwork: $100
- Highly Commended – Digital Artwork and Photography: $100
- Carers Award: $100
- Youth Award*: $30
Please note: we cannot accept video submissions. All artwork must be submitted in high res (min 2MB) JPG or PNG format.
*Open to persons aged 17 years and under. All entries into the Youth Award must be submitted with consent by a parent, guardian or grandparent.
Enter the 2026 Art Show View a virtual exhibition of all artworksMeet our 2025 winners
The ceremony to announce our 2025 awardees was held virtually on Friday 30 May 2025, in recognition of World MS Day.
Congratulations to the 2025 winners of our MS Virtual Art Show.
- The Barry Allen Art Award: Climbing Mountains with Disability by Leon Waldhuter (pictured)
- Highly Commended – Painting: It's all in her Head by Laura Trapnell
- Highly Commended – Drawing/Illustration: Suitcases by Gwen Rodgers
- Highly Commended – Sculptural/Craft Artwork: Delicate Fortitude by Olivia Tahen
- Highly Commended – Digital Artwork and Photography: Can't catch me now by Deanna Renee
- Carers Award: Discussion by Debra Hornby
- Carers Award Special Mention: Sea Monster Ari Benedetti
The complete folio of artworks from all our 2025 entrants are now proudly on display. In 2025, we had almost 100 talented artists submit 200 pieces of work.
View the 2025 winners
Watch Deanna Renee, winner of the 2022 Barry Allen Art Award, discuss her artwork
Past MS Virtual Art Show winners
Enter the 2026 Art Show
*Open to persons aged 17 years and under. All entries into the Youth Award must be submitted with consent by a parent, guardian or grandparent.