The Little Things That Make Life Big: Celebrating 10 Years of the Little Things Art Prize

Why the Little Things Matter

A kind message. A shared joke. A bunch of flowers that says, “I saw this and thought of you.” It doesn’t take much to make someone’s day. And that’s exactly what the Little Things Art Prize is all about: small, creative expressions of the moments, people or things that make us happy – or just make us pause and feel grateful.

At Little Flowers Sydney, we’re big believers in this. We see it every day in the reasons people send flowers. To thank someone for a thoughtful deed. To celebrate a little win. To brighten up a tough week. Or simply to share a beautiful bunch just because. So when we were invited to support the Little Things Art Prize again this year, we didn’t hesitate.

Now in its 10th year, the prize invites artists of all experience levels and all ages to submit small-scale artworks – up to 30x30cm – that reflect something little that makes life feel big. It could be a quick sketch of your dog’s waggy tail. A ceramic bowl like the one your nan used every Sunday. A painting of your neighbour walking their cat. Or just a feeling: a moment of stillness, a flicker of joy, a quiet kind of awe.

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about paying attention. And reflecting on the little things that make a big difference to our days, once we take the time to stop to notice them.

Who Can Enter

Everyone. That’s the short answer.

You don’t need to be a professional artist, or even call yourself “creative.” If something small has made you smile lately, or helped you through, or reminded you that life is still good – you’ve got the raw material. The artworks can be ‘wall works’ (so think paintings, collages, textiles, illustrations) or ceramics. Entries from all ages are welcome – with a special award for the best young artist.

A winning artwork from the 2023 Prize.

Entries are open until August 24, and selected finalists will be exhibited in a public show at David Stein Art in Woollahra from 22nd October to 2nd November. Even if you don’t enter, you should definitely put this date in your diary and come along. The gallery is full of tiny treasures, and the energy on Prize Day is something else. You can check out the artwork, meet the artists, and even treat yourself to an artwork. It’s low-key, lovely, and always leaves you thinking about what really matters.

It’s hard to choose a favourite with so many fabulous works to choose from

The Gratitude Wall

One of our favourite parts of the exhibition in 2023 was the interactive Gratitude Wall, so it’s something we’re hoping to repeat in 2025. It’s a simple, but powerful, idea. While you’re walking through the show, we invite you to pause and think about someone who’s made your life better – and why. 

Take part in our interactive display for a chance to win some flowers.

Maybe it’s a colleague who helped you with a tricky spreadsheet. Maybe it’s your sister who sends voice notes that make you laugh-snort on the train. Maybe it’s the friend who always says “let’s go for a wine” when you most need it. Sometimes.the smaller the reason, the more fun it is to send and receive the flowers. It’s a great opportunity to think about the awesome people in your life and the little things they do that make a difference. Whoever it is, write that person a message. Tell them why you’re grateful. There’s even a space to draw something small on the left-hand side, just like our flower tags.

The Wall of Gratitude: fun and heartwarming in equal measure.

At the end of the show, we’ll select a few of these notes (some at random, some standouts), and the person they’re written for will receive a bunch of Little Flowers – sent with your message, of course.

What the Research Says (and What We See Every Day)

Psychologists like Dr Tim Sharp – a.k.a. Dr Happy – have written a lot about the power of gratitude. When we stop to notice something good, then take the time to express it (especially in a creative way), it boosts our mood, lowers our stress, and strengthens connection.

Dr Tim Sharp (aka Dr Happy), expert in gratitude and wellbeing.

You don’t have to write a novel or paint a masterpiece. A tag. A scribble. A bunch. That’s all it takes. We see it in our flower messages every single day. “Just thinking of you.” “You’re doing great.” “Thanks for everything last week.”

These aren’t grand gestures. They’re little ones. And they really, really matter.

Research in positive psychology consistently shows that expressing gratitude doesn’t just feel nice – it changes things. It helps shift attention away from what’s missing and toward what’s meaningful. Regularly practising gratitude has been linked to better sleep, stronger relationships, improved resilience, and even better physical health outcomes. And when that gratitude is shared – written, spoken, sent – it amplifies the benefits. It makes both the giver and receiver feel more connected, more seen.

That’s what makes the Little Things Art Prize so special. It gives people a reason to slow down and notice something good. To turn that small-but-real moment into something visible. A drawing. A note. A bunch of Little Flowers. A gesture that might take two minutes, but might stay with someone all day – or all week.

Awards Day: Laughter, Art, and the Best Kind of Crowd

There’s always a great atmosphere on Awards Day

If you’re in Sydney at the time, Awards Day is a must. (November 2nd, 2-4pm, pop it in the diary now!)  You’ll get to feel it all at once. The room’s usually full – of people, of energy, of stories being shared and emotions bubbling up. There’s laughter by the drinks table, groups huddled around favourites, artists explaining their work, and visitors going quiet in front of something that resonates with them.

Pop a tag on the Gratitude Wall and take a little time to read the messages. Some are funny. Some are unexpectedly tender. Some will remind you of people you hadn’t thought of in years.

You might leave with a new favourite artist. Or a renewed sense of calm. Or perhaps the name of someone you need to thank.

Awards Day is a great chance  the artists and hear the stories behind the work

Want to Send a Bunch?

If someone’s just popped into your mind – someone who’s helped you, cheered you on, or just made a difference by being their quietly lovely self – why not tell them? A bunch of Little Flowers and thoughtful message tag can do the job beautifully.

Send a bunch now and brighten someone’s day with same-day flower delivery from Little Flowers Sydney. Or practice gratitude on the regular with a flower subscription. for your favourite person.

Little Flowers bunches often have a message of gratitude attached

SEND A BUNCH NOW

The Little Things Art Prize – Quick Info

• Entries Close: August 24, 2025
• Exhibition: October 22 – November 2, 2025
• Awards Day: November 2nd, 2-4pm
• Location: David Stein Art, 83 Moncur St, Woollahra, Sydney
• More Info: littlethingsartprize.com

To read an interview with Marnie Ross, founder of Little Things Art Prize click here

To explore more about the psychology of happiness, gratitude,
and wellbeing, visit drhappy.com.au.