The MS Plus Virtual Art Show 2025
The MS Virtual Art show, now in its 19th year, provides people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological conditions an opportunity to express their creativity and their unique experiences through art.
2025 entries are now closed. View a virtual exhibition of all artworks on the MS Plus website from Tuesday 20 May.
We know that art can be a therapeutic tool that helps to connect the mind and body, helping people living with chronic conditions identify and express their feelings, to better manage their condition and improve their daily life.
Whether you identify as an artist or just enjoy creating, this is your chance to slow down and take a moment to explore your inner world.
Wondering what to submit?
There was no theme for submissions this year. You may choose to represent your journey living with a neurological condition, or your artwork may simply be your outlet and a way to improve your mental health. The only limit is your imagination!
Please note: we do not accept AI-generated artwork.
Who can enter the MS Virtual Art Show?
Entry is open to people living with MS, their carers and those with other progressive neurological conditions. All types of artworks can be submitted, including paintings, illustrations, sculptures, craft, digital artwork and photography. Please note: the art show is open to MS Plus clients only. By submitting your entry to the MS Virtual Art Show you agree to be registered as a client of MS Plus. If you have any concerns or queries please reach out to our Plus Connect team: 1800 042 138 or email connect@msplus.org.au
Each year, one of the artists participating in the MS Virtual Art Show will receive the prestigious Barry Allen Art Award. The late Barry Allen was a man who loved painting and received great comfort in art and music.
We also have a dedicated prize for carers. Friends, family and carers of people living with MS or other neurological conditions in NSW, ACT, TAS and VIC are welcome to enter.
The full range of awards and prizes on offer include:
- The Barry Allen Art Award: $350
- Highly Commended – Painting: $100
- Highly Commended – Drawing/Illustration: $100
- Highly Commended – Sculptural/Craft Artwork: $100
- Highly Commended – Digital Artwork and Photography: $100
- Carers Award: $100
The ceremony to announce our 2025 awardees was held virtually on Friday 30 May, in recognition of World MS Day.
Please note: we cannot accept video submissions. All artwork must be submitted in high res (min 2MB) JPG or PNG format.
Who is judging the MS Plus Virtual Art Show entries?
In 2025, we welcomed the return of our judge, Northern College of the Arts & Technology Program Leader, Tracy Paterson.
Tracy has worked as an art and design educator for post compulsory students at NCAT Folio Preparation for over 15 years. During this time, she has taught broadly across the creative arts including Graphic Design, Photography and Photo-Imaging, Illustration, Visual Arts, Life Drawing, Communications, Visual Literacy, Studio Drawing and Digital Design.
Meet our 2025 winners
Congratulations to the 2025 winners of our MS Virtual Art Show.
- The Barry Allen Art Award: Chasing Mountains with a Disability by Leon Waldhuter
- Highly Commended – Painting: It's all in her Head by Laura Trapnell
- Highly Commended – Drawing/Illustration: Suitcases by Gwen Rodgers
- Highly Commended – Sculptural/Craft Artwork: Delicate Fortitude by Olivia Tahen
- Highly Commended – Digital Artwork and Photography: Can't catch me now by Deanna Renee
- Carers Award: Discussion by Debra Hornby
- Carers Award Special Mention: Sea Monster Ari Benedetti
Check out the 2025 MS Virtual Art Show Gallery
The complete folio of artworks from all our 2025 entrants are now proudly on display. This year we had almost 100 talented artists submit 200 pieces of work.
View the full 2025 Virtual Art Show gallery