Public Programs
USU Creative Awards 2026
All free, all welcome
Presented as part of USU Creative Month
Spoken Word Night
Wednesday 9 September, 5:30-7pm
Verge Gallery
From fantastical works of fiction to pieces of exacting cultural criticism, Spoken Word Night is an opportunity to engage with the vast array of material written and performed by Sydney’s next generation of writers.
Hear from students shortlisted for the Word category of the 2026 USU Creative Awards as they read out excerpts of their written works at Verge.
Open to all students at USyd, the annual USU Creative Awards is Australia's largest university student union creative prize, highlighting the very best of on-campus creativity from our student community.
Drinks and snacks will be provided.
Short Film Screening
Friday 11 September, 5:30-7pm
Verge Gallery
Immerse yourself in a series of short films created by Sydney’s emerging filmmakers at our Short Film Screening!
Sit back, grab some popcorn, and transport yourself into the filmic worlds created by the finalists on the ‘big screen.'
Drinks and snacks will be provided.
Artist Talks
Saturday 12 September, 11am-2pm
Verge Gallery
Bring along friends and family for a Saturday afternoon of art and refreshments! Finalists of the Art category of the USU Creative Awards will speak about the concepts and processes which have informed their practices and led them to create the works featured within this year’s USU Creative Awards exhibition at Verge.
Open to all students at USyd, the annual USU Creative Awards is Australia's largest university student union creative prize, highlighting the very best of on-campus creativity from our student community.
Drinks and snacks will be provided.
Live Music
Thursday 17 September, 5:30-8:00pm
Hermann’s Bar
Looking for another night of USYD's best live acts? Immerse yourself in the sounds of the USU Creative Awards Music category shortlisted works LIVE at Hermann's Bar.
From indie bands to ambient soundscapes, we're putting on a music show you don't want to miss.
Open to all students at USyd, the annual USU Creative Awards is Australia's largest university student union creative prize, highlighting the very best of on-campus creativity from our student community.
Drinks and snacks will be provided.
Creative Awards Night
Thursday 24 September, 5:30-8:30pm
Verge Gallery
Send off Creative Month with a bang at Verge’s annual USU Creative Awards Night!
Marking the close of Creative Month, this Creative Awards ceremony will be our biggest yet. Expect the best up-and-coming DJs, late-night art, plenty of delicious food and drinks, and an overall buzzy atmosphere as the sun sets on Creative Month.
Beginning with the announcement of the winners of all four Creative Awards categories (Art, Music, Word & Short Film) by our incredible industry judges, and featuring musical performances from last year’s winners, this event is an opportunity to celebrate the next generation of Sydney creatives.
Come along to meet like-minded people, have a boogie, and cheer on the artistic talent thriving on campus.
Free. All welcome.
5:30pm - Doors open
6:00pm - Formalities begin
Food & drink provided
Learn more about the 2026 USU Creative Awards here.