Back at the Australasian Quilt Convention in April, I was honoured to receive the esteemed Rajah Award which recognises outstanding achievement in quilting in Australia. I am deeply touched to know that my contribution is valued and look forward to teaching and exhibiting at the Australasian Quilt Convention 9-12 April 2026. This is the text of the announcement:
The winner is an accomplished teacher and designer, whose work is characterised by its originality and distinctive contemporary style.
Her work, both as an artist and an advocate, has reached audiences across Australia and internationally through quilt shows, curated art quilt exhibitions, and gallery presentations which she initiated and organised.
These efforts have played a significant role in elevating quilts as a recognized art form and promoting Australian quilting on the global stage.
Her dedication extends beyond her own quilting pursuits. She is a trained and experienced quilt judge, demonstrating her commitment to upholding excellence in the craft.
Additionally, her long-standing volunteer service with guild and network organizations showcases her tireless devotion to the quilting community. Last year she generously ran a free year-long online quilt-along for quilters around the world.
Her multifaceted contributions and her unwavering dedication make her a standout in the quilting world.
The winner of the 2025 Rajah Award is Brenda Gael Smith.
It is wonderful to be part of a vibrant creative community as I forge my new life. I also appreciate the support that you and Expertise Events (the sponsors of the Rajah Award) have provided at strategic times in my creative practice including:
- teaching at AQC in 2009, 2010, 2013, 2022 and 2024;
- guest artist at Craft & Sewing Shows in 2012;
- exhibiting with the Twelve by Twelve International Art Quilt Challenge at AQC and other EE events in 2010 and 2013;
- exhibiting my independently curated exhibitions Beneath the Southern Sky, Living Colour and A Matter of Time at AQC in 2012, 2014 and 2016 respectively;
- supporting my Vision 2020 and Wonder of Eyes projects that were curtailed by the pandemic; and
- exhibiting as a finalist in the AQC challenges: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2014, 2017 and 2023.
The 2026 AQC Challenge is Connections and is open to all quilters. The closing date is 5 February 2026
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