Helen Merrigan Colfer Awarded 2026 Earhart Art Prize for Powerful Tribute to Amelia Earhart

Greater Shantallow Community Arts has announced the winner of the 2026 Earhart Prize for Female Artists in Ireland, with artist Helen Merrigan Colfer taking top honours for her piece, What Do Dreams Know of Boundaries.

The annual competition, established in 2022, celebrates female artistic talent across Ireland while honouring the legacy of pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart, whose historic solo transatlantic flight brought her to Ballyarnett, Derry, in May 1932.

Helen Merrigan Colfer’s winning artwork was praised for its powerful narrative and symbolic exploration of Earhart’s achievements, courage and determination.

Speaking about the piece, Helen said she aimed to reflect Earhart’s role as “a pioneer of female aviation and strong womanhood”, while also incorporating symbolism linked to the aviator’s many accolades and achievements.

“In my submission piece, I’ve attempted to capture a narrative that reflects Amelia Earhart’s achievements, courage and determination as a pioneer of female aviation and strong womanhood,” she said.

“I used symbolism to portray deeper layers that hint at her many accolades and prestigious achievements, including the Special Gold Medal from the National Geographic Society, presented by President Hoover in 1932 in honour of her solo, non-stop flight across the Atlantic Ocean.

“I also wanted to capture a sense of her courage in conquering the elements and breaking the stereotypes of the 1930s, when women were so often expected to prioritise domestic roles over careers or professional independence. Amelia well and truly shattered that glass ceiling.”

Judges said the standard of submissions continues to rise each year, making the judging process increasingly competitive and strengthening the exhibition showcasing shortlisted works.

The Earhart Prize was launched earlier this year by Greater Shantallow Community Arts in partnership with City of Derry Airport. The competition invites female artists from across Ireland to submit original work inspired by themes including exploration, strength, innovation and aspiration, reflecting Earhart’s enduring legacy.

Thank you to sponsors, City of Derry Airport, and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland for their continued support of the initiative.

The 2026 competition comes ahead of a significant milestone next year, when organisers will mark the 95th anniversary of Amelia Earhart’s historic landing in Derry in 1932.

Congratulations are extended to Helen Merrigan Colfer and all participating artists for contributing to another successful year for the growing competition.

(L-R) Winner Helen Merrigan Colfer is presented with a cheque by City of Derry Airport Manager Steve Frazer and the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane, Ruairí McHugh.