Down Syndrome NSW Celebrates Community Members Among the 2025 Archibald Prize Finalists

Down Syndrome NSW proudly congratulates three incredible artists from our community, Catherine McGuiness, Meagan Pelham, and Mathew Calandra, on being named finalists in the prestigious 2025 Archibald Prize. 

The Archibald Prize, held by the Art Gallery of NSW, is one of Australia’s most celebrated art awards, and it is an extraordinary milestone to see not one but three artists with Down syndrome recognised among this year’s finalists. 

Catherine McGuiness was selected for her touching work Shan is a little little little mermaid, a vibrant portrait full of imagination and affection. 

Meagan Pelham charmed judges with Magic Nikki and Charlie Fancy Pants Party … DJaaaaaaaay, an explosion of colour and celebration brought to life with her signature use of gouache, glitter, and nail polish. 

Mathew Calandra impressed with His face like my face – self-portrait as Robert Englund playing Freddy Krueger, a thoughtful and bold exploration of identity and artistic influence. 

“We are so proud of Catherine, Meagan and Mathew. It’s the third time Catherine and Meagan have been named finalists, and Matthew is a Sulman Prize finalist 2021. This achievement further recognises their status as professional artists, whose talents are a powerful reminder of the creativity, skill and contribution people with Down syndrome make to the arts,” said Deborah Begg, General Manager, Down Syndrome NSW.

This recognition is a celebration of inclusion, visibility, and the right of every person to express themselves through art. Down Syndrome NSW extends its warmest congratulations to the artists and thanks the Art Gallery of NSW for continuing to showcase diverse voices on one of the country’s most prominent cultural stages. 

To view the finalists' works, visit the Art Gallery of NSW website: https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/prizes/archibald/2025/ 

Media enquiries: 

media@downsyndromensw.org.au