NAS alumnus and current painting lecturer Les Rice is well-known for his incredibly detailed velvet paintings. His 15+ years as an established tattoo artist complement his artistic practice – both require careful concentration and methodical work.
Here the artist takes us through his own oil paint recipe, artist practice and the importance of understanding your medium, in conversation with NAS Creative Producer Sebastian Goldspink.
Enjoy 20% off a Summer School Short Course with code FLASHSALE20
Don’t miss this exclusive 20% off flash sale on the National Art School Summer School Short Courses. Flash Sale starts right now and ends midnight Monday 6 October.*
Oct 3
We are pleased to share the exciting news that we are introducing a new BFA (Hons) degree at the National Art School in 2026.
The Bachelor of Fine Art (Honours) is an intensive one-year program designed for graduates of the BFA who are ready to deepen their studio practice and expand their academic and professional capabilities. This course is ideal for emerging artists who want to refine their practice, build industry connections, and prepare for postgraduate study or professional opportunities in the creative sector.
New scholarships will be available to students entering the BFA (Hons), with further details to be shared later this year. For more information and key dates, visit futurestudents.nas.edu.au (link in bio).
Oct 2
Join us for free 18+ concert `Afterglow` – The Neighbour at the Gate exhibition closing party.
Headlined by Miss Kaninna, the event features performances by HYLANDER, Rocky Stallone, BRINA, Kuya Hennessy, and DJ Court Jester. RSVP today as tickets are going fast!
Afterglow
Thursday 16 October
Doors: 4.30pm
Concert starts: 7.00pm
Cell Block Theatre, National Art School
Please note: if the Cell Block reaches capacity, you’re welcome to enjoy the concert from the courtyard until space opens up inside. Food trucks and pop up bar.
FREE ADMISSION, RSVP is essential due to limited capacity (link in bio)
Oct 1
We are pleased to welcome three distinguished individuals to our Board of Directors. Each of our new board members brings a wealth of expertise, insight, and passion for the arts. Their diverse backgrounds and commitment to creative excellence will play a pivotal role in guiding NAS into its next chapter.
Please join us in warmly welcoming: Emilya Colliver, Helen Lochhead AO and Lucy Keeler.
Photo credit: Jacqui Manning (Emilya Colliver); John Nguyen Photography (Helen Lochhead AO); Paul McMillan (Lucy Keeler)
Sep 30
Congratulations to NAS Short Courses Painting Lecturer Michelle Hiscock (@michellelouisemariehiscock) for winning the 2025 Portia Geach Memorial Award with her work, `The Weather Watcher after Zurbarán`.
The Portia Geach Memorial Award is the pre-eminent portraiture prize for women in Australia, established by Florence Kate Geach in memory of her sister in 1965.
An exhibition of all finalists’ works is open for public viewing at the S.H. Ervin Gallery (@shervingallery) in The Rocks, Sydney, from Friday 19 September until Sunday 2 November.
Visit shop.nas.edu.au (link in bio) to book now for Term 4 Short Courses. Summer School Short Courses in January 2026 will open for booking from Friday 3 October.
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Michelle Hiscock, `The Weather Watcher after Zurbarán`, 2025, oil on linen, 50 x 40 cm, courtesy of the artist and the S.H. Ervin Gallery (The Rocks, Sydney)
Sep 28
Apply for the Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS) and secure your place at the National Art School before you get your ATAR!
Our admissions are based on your interview and portfolio. We`re interested in your artistic potential, not your ATAR.
Mature age students and students who are not Year 12 are encouraged to apply to our main admission round before Thursday 20 November.
Sep 24
