The inaugural Beer Chair Competition, held in Nelson in 2025, invited participants to deconstruct one aluminium beer can to make a miniature chair, which had to fit within the can from which it was constructed.

It attracted a diverse range of hopefuls from artists, architects and art students to those who just enjoyed the challenge. There were some outstanding submissions. 50 entries came in from around the country with 43 being selected for consideration. First prize went to William Samuels, a Nelson architect for his exceptional entry, The Buckminster.

The judges for 2026 remain the same:

Fleur Stewart, Lee Woodman and Eelco Boswijk.

First prize $3,000

Runner up $500

Digital entries are due 1 March and the results will be announced at The Free House, 95 Collingwood Street, Nelson on 31 March. The chairs will be shown at Lee Woodman Studios, 259 Hardy Street, Nelson immediately after the awards’ presentation.

Information about 2025 winners and details for this year’s event can be found at our website:

https://www.beerchaircompetition.co.nz/

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