Liverpool’s best young artist revealed at NEXT 2026
Liverpool City Council has officially launched the NEXT 2026 Exhibition at its new permanent home, Yellamundie – Liverpool City Library and Gallery, with Alysia Jerochim from Amity College announced as the winner of this year’s NEXT Exhibition Award.
Alysia received the top honour for her ceramic sculpture Fragmented Humanity, selected for its strong conceptual approach and technical execution.
“My artwork is called “Fragmented Humanity” and has references to Antony Gormley’s “Field” and Ai Wei Wei’s “Sunflower seeds”. This work is 700 ceramic small ceramic figures. The work encourages the viewer to reflect on their own perspectives and the way they judge others.
“I wanted my artwork to connect with the audience emotionally and give them a moment to think about difference and foster understanding,” she said.
NEXT 2026 showcases artworks by 21 HSC Visual Arts students from 12 schools across the Liverpool Local Government Area, highlighting the depth of emerging creative talent within the community.
Deputy Mayor Peter Harle said the exhibition demonstrates the vital role local government plays in supporting culture and creativity.
“Local government is often described as being about roads, rates, and rubbish, but initiatives like NEXT show our role goes far beyond that. It’s about relationships, representation, and real opportunity: creating spaces where young people feel seen, where creativity is celebrated, and where the next generation can thrive.”
“This exhibition gives our young artists a platform at the very beginning of their careers, and we are incredibly proud to support them,” he said.
Set within one of Australia’s most culturally and linguistically diverse communities, NEXT offers a unique opportunity to experience the ideas, stories, and creative approaches of young artists, providing a glimpse into the future of Australian art.
This year’s launch featured guest speaker Monica Rani Rudhar, a NEXT alumnus who has gone on to achieve national and international recognition, including exhibiting in the Sydney Biennale.
Mayor Mannoun said Monica’s journey highlights the long-term impact of the program. “Monica is a wonderful example of how NEXT can foster emerging talent. From exhibiting here as a student to returning as an established artist, her story reflects the strength and diversity of our community.”
Born to Indian and Romanian migrant parents, Monica’s work explores identity, migration and belonging; mirroring the rich cultural fabric of Liverpool.
The 2026 exhibition also marks the permanent relocation of NEXT to Yellamundie Gallery, ensuring the program continues to engage directly with the thousands of young people who visit the library each year.
Yellamundie has quickly become a cornerstone of Liverpool’s cultural life, with its multi award-winning design and growing reputation as a destination for learning, connection, and creativity.
The NEXT Exhibition is open to the public and free to attend during library opening hours.
Dates:
Closes Sunday 19 July 2026
Location:
Yellamundie Gallery, Level B2, Liverpool City Library, 52 Scott Street, Liverpool, 2170
Weekdays: 0900-2000. Saturday: 0900-1600. Sunday: 1200-1600.
Entry:
Free
Media Contact:
Alan Gale communications@liverpool.nsw.gov.au 0492 087 403
