Celebrating the NXT Gen ARTS Grant Award winner
We are excited to announce that Austin Armstrong is the recipient of the 2026 NXT Gen ARTS Grant Award, presented through Exit Art at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT).
Exit Art is an annual exhibition hosted by MAGNT in collaboration with the Department of Education and Training. The exhibition showcases outstanding art and design projects created by Stage 2 students from across the Northern Territory.
Austin’s award recognises the strength of his creative practice, showcased in the exhibition through two works: Time to wake up, a large-format illustration, and Wings, a 70‑page original graphic novella.
NXT Gen ARTS program
Delivered by Arts NT on behalf of the department, the $13,000 NXT Gen ARTS program supports long-term career development in the creative industries.
It pairs young emerging artists with NT arts organisations through paid placements, offering practical, on-the-job experience and professional mentoring. The grant includes $10,000 to advance the artist’s skills and practice, and $3,000 to assist the host organisation with mentoring and administration.
This year, one NXT Gen ARTS grant recipient was selected through an award pathway, presented as part of Exit Art.
By investing in practical pathways, the program helps emerging creatives gain industry exposure, build networks and develop the confidence to pursue professional careers right here in the Territory.
See the exhibition
Exit Art is open to the public at MAGNT from Saturday 14 February to 31 May 2026. Visitors can view Austin’s works alongside a diverse range of art by talented Year 12 graduates from across the NT.
For more information, visit the MAGNT website.
