"It would be great to see how my work compares with other people from other countries," she said.
"My work is universal and seeing what the others have done confirms I'm on the right track."
Three New Zealand-based buyers have already shown interest in the piece, but Kellahan is not allowed to sell it yet.
It is likely the artwork will be opened up for tender once the results of the competition are in.
The dramatic 1.5m by 1.8m painting is large enough to cover a small wall.
"My work is called The Great Escape.
"It focuses on two of the central issues facing environmentalists today - shrinking habitats for indigenous species and the risk of extinction," said Kellahan.
In 2011, the artist was New Zealand's entry into the Biennale and International Awards of Chianciano in Italy, where she came third in her category.
She was also the winner of the 2009 Cricket Art Prize in Australia and made the top five selection in 2011.