There is a particular kind of tension that comes with buying something when you do not know what you are getting. The Incognito Art Show has built an entire experience around that feeling — and this weekend, for the first time, it comes to Brisbane.
More than 12,000 original artworks. Every single one priced at $100. And the catch — or the thrill, depending on how you look at it — is that you will have no idea who made the piece you are taking home until you turn it over after purchase.
How It Works
The Incognito Art Show invites submissions from artists at every level — emerging talents, mid-career creatives and some of Australia’s most celebrated names. Each artist receives three A5 cards on which to create their work. Every piece receives a unique code, is catalogued online for preview, and is then displayed anonymously on the walls of the venue.
On sale day, you choose based purely on what you see in front of you. No name. No price ladder. No prestige attached. The artwork earns its sale on its own merits — which is exactly the point.
The artist’s identity, and often a personal message, is revealed on the back of the piece only after you have bought it. You might walk away with something by a nationally recognised artist whose work normally sells for thousands. Or you might discover a new voice entirely. Either way, $100.
Brisbane’s First Time
Now in its sixth year nationally, 2026 marks the first time the Incognito Art Show has come to Brisbane — joining Sydney and Townsville as part of a three-stop east coast tour. The show launched in Sydney in 2020 with 1,800 submissions and has grown to 39,000 this year.
The original Irish version has attracted works by Bruce Springsteen, Bono, Tracey Emin and Ronnie Wood. The Australian edition has been steadily building its own mythology.
All profits from the 2026 Brisbane show go to organisations supporting artists with disability, including Access Arts in Brisbane.
The Details
The show is at Long Island Brisbane — right in the heart of Newstead, at 10 Festival Place (accessible via 18 Longland Street on foot).
Viewing (free): Tuesday 22 – Friday 24 July, 10am – 4pm
Sale — Saturday 25 July: 8am – 7pm
Sale — Sunday 26 July: 9am – 4pm
Online sale opens 6pm Sunday 26 July at incognitoartshow.com
You are limited to three artworks per person. First in, best dressed — whoever arrives at 8am Saturday gets the pick of all 12,000.
If you live in Newstead or Teneriffe, this is essentially on your doorstep. Whether you collect art or are simply curious, it is worth an hour on Saturday morning — and at $100 a piece, the risk is remarkably low.
