UK Art Competitions 2024 - Over 150 Art Prizes

Our pick of the biggest and best UK and International Art Competitions in 2024 with prizes, deadlines and entry fees…

Art competitions are not for everyone. Hockney once quipped ‘you wouldn’t call Picasso an award-winning artist, would you?’ Art awards neither make good artists nor confirm bad ones. All they attest is that a selection of judges like the work – and, if the art gods are smiling, hand over a suitcase of cash to prove it.

If you can afford the entry fees and maintain a zen-like tranquillity if your work doesn’t make the cut then you’re all set enter these art contests. If it does get selected then an exciting exhibition awaits and you can practice that astonished winner’s acceptance speech. Fingers crossed. Competitions are listed in chronological order by submission deadline date.

Currently Closed

The following art competitions are closed for entries. They’re moved up to the open list when their call for entries goes out.

Royal Society of Marine Artists Annual Exhibition

The RSMA seeks submissions of art inspired by the sea and marine environment, in short anything that involves tidal water.

Close:	opens 29th April currently closed
News:	Notification of selection: Friday 11 August, 12 noon. Last closed: 28th October 2023.
Prize:	BAE Systems Award: £5,000 (for the best work capturing the story of British Shipbuilding) Baltic Exchange Award: £2,000 (for an outstanding work related to the maritime industry) Charles Pears Award: £500 (outstanding work, in any medium, by a non-member) Kenneth Denton Award: £500 Murray’s Commercial Fishing Award: £500 (works in any medium depicting commercial fishing) RSMA Award: £300 (for best small painting, 30cm and under) RSMA New Generation Award:: £250 (artists aged 35 or under) Topbond Marine Award: £250 (works depicting marine engineering or construction) Winsor & Newton Oil Prize: £250 (worth of Winsor & Newton art materials for a notable oil painting) Sea Pictures Gallery Award: £250 (work of distinction in any medium) Pegasus Art Prize: £100 (worth of art materials for work in any medium)
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (21-30 Sep 2023)
What:	Oil, acrylic, watercolour, original prints of any media, mixed media, drawings, pastels, or sculpture. All work must be for sale, price should include commission of 45%+VAT.
Who:	UK and international artists (18+)
Fees:	£20 per work, £14 if under 35 (max 6 artworks)
Site:	Enter here

Art Unlimited Open Art Competition

Open to artists from all countries working in any medium, with a top prize of £2,500 and solo exhibition at Art Unlimited, Bridport.

Close:	opens 1st May currently closed
News:	Shortlist announced: 14th August, winners announced: 15th September 2023. Last closed: 31st July 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: £2,500 (and solo exhibition at Art Unlimited, Bridport) People’s Choice Award: £500 Best Concept: £300 Best Creative Piece: £300 Best 3D Piece: £300 15-18s 1st Prize: £300 (worth of framing and show at Unique Framecraft Gallery)
Show:	Art Unlimited, Bridport, Dorset (21 Oct – 5 Nov 2022)
What:	Any art piece is eligible regardless of medium or style. No prints, copies, reproductions, or photographs of the pieces are eligible (photographs will be accepted if that is the artwork).
Who:	UK & International artists (2 categories: 15-18 and over 18s)
Jury:	Jussi Pylkkänen (Art Dealer & Global President of Christie’s Auction House), Lady Victoria Conran (multi-disciplined art expert), Pippa Walker (Lecturer on Foundation Diploma and Degree in Art and Design at Weymouth College), Richard Vine (Head of Art at Woodroffe School, Lyme Regis).
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	Adults entry: £15, Under 18s: £10.00 (to submit up to 5 works)
Site:	Enter here

East London Art Prize

Designed to showcase the talent of artists working and living in east London, run by affordable studio provider Bow Arts.

Close:	TBA opens Spring 2024
News:	Shortlist date TBA. Last closed: 31st August 2022
Prize:	First Prize: £15,000 (and a solo exhibition at Nunnery Gallery. The runner-up second prize is a year’s studio space with Bow Arts)
Show:	Nunnery Gallery (2023)
What:	Any media.
Who:	East London based artists living or working within an ‘E’ postcode, encompassing E1-E20, SE1-SE28 and EC1-EC4.
Fees:	£10 entry fee (£7 concession for students, those on job seekers allowance or over 65s)
Site:	Enter here

The Hari Art Prize

In collaboration with A Space For Art comes a free to enter art prize for self taught or recent UK art graduates. Judges include Matthew Burrows MBE.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Awards ceremony at The Hari in November 2023. Last closed: 30th June 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: £10,000 (and exhibition at The Hari) Runner Up Awards: Residency & Exhibition (two artist in residence awards based at The Hari from Jan-Feb 2024 & London exhibition. All three finalists will have their work exhibited at The Hari, Hong Kong.)
Show:	The Hari, London (1 Sep 2023 – Jan 2024)
What:	2D work: Paint, pastel, pencil, textile, printmaking, photography or mixed media
Who:	The award will be open to all applicants who are self-taught or have graduated in the last two years (2021-2023) from UK art colleges. The minimum age to apply is 18 years old, and artworks need to be located in the UK.
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

AIR Open

Open call for the Summer Exhibition from the contemporary gallery and exhibition space based in Altrincham, England.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist: 5th July 2023. Last closed: 25th June 2023.
Prize:	Prizes: £1,000 (up to £1,000 in cash prizes to be won) Additional Prizes (associate memberships, solo shows, gallery representation, art materials and more)
Show:	AIR Gallery, Altrincham (10 Aug – 30 Sep 2023)
What:	Any media
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	£5 per work (max 3)
Site:	Enter here

The Signature Art Prize

Open to art students currently studying and recent graduates from an arts-based degree within the last 3 years.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	45 shortlisted artists announced & Peoples’ Choice Awardopens on 15th April 2022. Last closed: 22nd November 2022
Prize:	Prizes include: (The Directors’ Residency Award – a month-long residency in a Central London studio space, gallery representation, A finalist’s exhibition in Central London}
Show:	Bankside Hotel, London June 2022
What:	Painting, Sculpture, Photography, Digital & Film, Drawing & Printmaking
Who:	UK and International artists (current art students and graduates from the last 3 years)
Fees:	No Entry Fee (max: 1 artwork)
Site:	Enter here

Bath Society Of Artists Open Exhibition

The Competition is open to all UK artists working in drawing, painting or mixed media. £4,000 prize fund and exhibition at Victoria Art Gallery.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Last open call: 3rd Feb – 17th March 2023
Prize:	First Prize: £1,500 Runner Up Prize: £750 Public Choice Prize: £500 Prize for 3D work: £250 Young Artist Prize: £250 Painting Prize: £250 Drawing Prize: £250 Print Prize: £250
Show:	Victoria Art Gallery, Bath (dates TBA)
What:	Entries may include paintings, sculpture, drawings, prints or mixed media
Who:	UK based artists (18+)
Fees:	£15 for first work (£27 for 2 artworks, £5 each for 18-25 year olds, max 2 artworks)
Site:	Enter here

Brewers Towner International

Biennial exhibition of contemporary art in all media by British and International artists at Towner Eastbourne with a £10,000 prize.

Close:	TBA currently closed
Date:	Shortlist: 11th April 2022, Last closed: 31st January 2022
Prize:	First Prize: £10,000 Exhibiting artists: £350 (each exhibiting artist will receive a fee of £350)
Show:	Towner Eastbourne, Eastbourne (October 2022 to end of January 2023)
What:	Any medium. All works submitted must have been completed in the last 2 years (after 2019). Theme: SANCTUARY – which can be interpreted as a physical space, a place offering safe haven, asylum or refuge; it can be understood as an area or environment where endangered species are protected, diverse ecosystems flourish and wildlife is preserved; it can also suggest a space of the imagination, a meditative mental space of solace and respite from the exterior world.
Who:	UK and international artists (at least one-third of exhibiting artists will be selected from Towner’s coastal region – being born or based in Sussex, Kent and Hampshire)
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Brixton Art Prize

A new and inclusive art competition on the theme of “Conflict & Integration” with all profits going towards community arts projects.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist announced by 30th May. Last closed: 15th May 2022
Prize:	First Prize: £1,000 (plus working together with the winning artist to develop their vision into a solo show)
Show:	The Department Store, Brixton (30 Jun – 1 Jul)
What:	Any media. Theme: Conflict & Integration
Who:	UK & international artists
Fees:	£15 entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Distributed Design Awards

Open to anyone working in the creative disciplines across Europe, looking for innovative and sustainably designed projects.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Last closed: 16th July 2023
Prize:	Project Excellence: €2,000 (project funding) Future Thinking Winner: SPACE10 mentorship Responsible Design Winner: IDEO U Designing a Business course Open & Adaptable Design winner: Index Project mentorship People’s Choice winner: Craftbot Flow 3D printer
What:	Open to all creative projects at the intersection of the maker movement and digital design. Must reflect some of the aspects of at least two of the four principles of distributed design: valuable, distributable, reproducible and design sensitive.
Who:	EU based designers or countries that participate in the Creative Europe Programme.
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

RBSA Prize Exhibition

Celebrating and supporting artists works in any medium (excluding photography) at the RBSA Gallery in Birmingham.

Close:	TBA opens June 2024
News:	Selected artists announced: 24th August. Last closed: 16th August 2022
Prize:	GMC Trust First Prize: £1,000 Anne Judd Memorial Second Prize: £500 GMC Trust Third Prize: £250 Alec Morison Watercolour Prize: £650 Arthur Lockwood Memorial Prize: £300 (for artist ages 35 and under)
Show:	RBSA Gallery, Birmingham (3 Sep – 12 Oct 2024)
What:	All media accepted, excluding photography. Must be for sale.
Who:	UK and international artists
Fees:	1 work: £19, 2 works: £32, 3 works: £40, 4 works: £48 (Free for Next Wave Associates, 50% discount for artists under 35)
Site:	Enter here

Chaiya Art Awards

The UK’s biggest art awards illuminating spirituality with a top prize of £10,000 and London exhibition in 2023. This year’s theme is ‘Awe and Wonder’.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist dates TBA. Last closed: 31st August 2022
Prize:	First Prize: £10,000 Public Choice: £1000 Judges Awards: £500 (eight prizes of £500 each)
Show:	Oxo Tower Wharf & The Bargehouse, London (7-16 April 2023)
What:	Theme: “Awe and Wonder”. Accepted media include but are not limited to: paintings, drawings, original prints, sculpture, photography, digitally produced artwork, mixed media, textiles, ceramics, glass, video and installations
Who:	UK residents (16 years or over as of January 31st 2023)
Fees:	Early bird: (to 15th June 2022) 1 work: £15, 2 works: £25, 3 works: £35. Standard: 1 work: £20, 2 works: £35, 3 works: £50. Concessions: £10 per entry.
Site:	Enter here

E.SUN Awards

New international category with $130,000 of prizes in this once every 5 years competition for paintings representing Yushan, Taiwan’s tallest mountain.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist announced by mid-September 2022. Last closed: 31st August 2022
Prize:	1st Prize: $36,000 (US Dollars) Special Selection: $18,000 (1-3 Winners) Outstanding: $7,200 (1-5 winners)
Show:	The winning works in each category will be included in a traveling exhibition around Taiwan and the organizer will cover the shipping costs of works to Taiwan (Nov – Dec 2022)
What:	“Convey the beauty of Yushan by using the environmental landscape and cultural/humanistic characteristics of Yushan National Park as the main creative theme.” Materials: Oil, acrylic, or gouache paint.
Who:	UK and international artists (any age)
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Allegro Prize

Third edition of the Allegro Prize, an international competition from Contemporary Lynx with a total prize pool of 80,000 PLN (approx £14,250).

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist: 16th November. Winners: 6th December. Last closed: 27th September 2022
Prize:	3 Main Awards of 25,000 PLN (approx £4,450) + article in Contemporary Lynx Magazine Audience Award: £5,000 PLN (approx £890) + article in Contemporary Lynx Magazine
What:	Any media. Submit your portfolio in English with a short biography. It should include at least 3 works (but not more than 30) in one pdf, and the file should not exceed 10MB.
Who:	Artists from any country, all ages
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

British Ceramics Biennial

The leading exhibition of contemporary ceramic art in the UK allowing artists to challenge themselves and the ceramics status quo.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Candidates informed Nov 2022. Last closed: 12th October 2022
Prize:	First Prize: £10,000 10 Finalists: £1,000 (10 selected artists will receive £1,000 each towards the exhibition of their selected work, national PR and marketing campaign, curatorial support, programme management support and return transport of exhibits)
Show:	China Hall, Stoke-On-Trent (23 Sep – 5 Nov 2023)
What:	Work that uses clay as the primary medium and is based on exploration of ceramic process. Areas of practice may include, but not be limited to studio pottery, design, socially engaged practice, sculpture, performance, installation, objects, film and audio.
Who:	UK based artists or collectives
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

Jutta Cuny-Franz Award

Free to enter international biennial award with a 10,000 Euro first prize for glass artists no older than 40.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Awards will be presented in Spring 2023. Last closed: 11th October 2022
Prize:	First Prize: €10,000 Talent Prizes: €1,500 (two endowments of €1,500 each)
Show:	Winning works will be published in the journal New Glass
What:	Artists who show outstanding talent and make significant use of glass in their work.
Who:	UK and international artists (must not be older than 40 years in 2023)
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

Stevens Competition

The Architectural Glass Artist of the Year award requires entrants to design two architectural glass screens to be installed in the City of London.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Feedback will be provided by the judges at a seminar in Glaziers’ Hall on 8th May 2023. Last closed: 30th December 2022.
Prize:	Commission: £3,500 (budget for the design commission, includes one reiteration of the design) Design Only First Prize: £1,300 Design Only Runner Up: £650 Design and Illustrative Panel: £1,300 (ages 16-24) Panel Runner Up: £650 Crafrtmanship Prize: £1,000 Presentation: £650
Show:	The Stained Glass Museum, Ely (2023 dates TBA)
What:	Design two architectural glass screens to be installed in the reception area of the new office development at The Mercers’ Company, City of London. A coloured design for each panel and the overall scheme of the pair of panels. The rectangular design for each panel must be to a scale of 1:6, that is, the design dimensions will be 225mm wide by 345mm high.
Who:	UK and international emerging artists, students and apprentices who have commenced their vocation in glass during or after 2012.
Fees:	None (Frame required for exhibition is £20)
Site:	Enter here

First Plinth: Public Art Award

Biennial award to produce a large-scale sculpture for the terrace at Dora House before moving to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Entrants will be sent resuls by email on week commencing 6th Feb 2023. Last closed: 16th January 2023.
Prize:	Award: £15,000 (to produce a large-scale sculpture)
What:	The winning sculptor is awarded £15,000 to produce a large-scale sculpture for the sculpture terrace at Dora House before moving to a second site at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The award theme is Parade. The fabrication of the winning work is supported by the award, with the winner receiving mentoring from a team of experienced professionals – engineers, consultants and artists – to ensure the concept is delivered to the exacting standards required of work to be installed in public spaces.
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	Non RSS members – £32.50, members – £22.50
Site:	Enter here

Contemporary Printmaking Prize

Fen Ditton Gallery launches its second open submission exhibition for contemporary printmakers in the UK. Free to enter.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist: 12th February 2023. Last closed: 5th February 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £500
Show:	Fen Ditton Gallery, Cambridge (11 Mar – 2 Apr 2023)
What:	Printmaking: An original print created within the last 3 years.
Who:	UK based artists (over 18)
Fees:	No entry fee (max 1 artwork)
Site:	Enter here

Refugee Week – Creative Commission

Commission for a creative (or creatives) with a refugee or asylum-seeking background to create the main artwork/design for Refugee Week 2023.

Close:	TBAcurrently closed
News:	Late Feb: Artist selection and contracting. Last closed: 10th February 2023
Prize:	Commission: £2,000 (to produce the visual identity for Refugee Week, this fee will need to cover professional fees, expenses and materials needed)
What:	An artist or collective to create a new artwork in response to the Refugee Week 2023 theme of “compassion”.
Who:	UK based artists with a refugee or asylum-seeking background.
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

New Narratives – Open Call

Invites proposals from UK-based young African creatives (18-35 years old) and young creatives with experience of living and working in Africa and the UK.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Applications should be sent to opencall@caerbladon.co.uk. Last closed: 16th February 2023.
Prize:	Commission Awards: £1,500 (4 awards of £1,500 each, includes artist fees and production costs)
What:	Content output can include but should not be limited to podcasts, essays, documentaries, short films, creative art, online exhibits, poetry, animation, illustrations etc. The focus should be on amplifying new narratives or demystifying existing myths and stereotypes, and short documentaries presenting new stories about contemporary African experience in the UK. Applicants should send an outline proposal as a pdf (no more than six sides of A4), with a project concept, production schedule, indicative budget, brief bios of the creative contributors/production team and any relevant supporting images, links to websites and video content etc.
Who:	UK-based young African creatives (18-35 years old) and young creatives in Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland with experience of living and working in Africa and the UK.
Fees:	No Entry Fee
Site:	Enter here

D31 Art Prize

Online exhibition from the Doncaster based gallery, open to artists from any country, best in show receives £200 cash prize.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection Notification: 24th February 2023. Last closed: 22nd February 2023.
Prize:	Best in Show: £200
Show:	Online exhibition for 30 shortlisted artists (9th March – 28th April 2023)
What:	Any medium
Who:	UK and international artists
Fees:	1 entry: £10, 2 entries: £18 (plus £15 particpation fee if selected)
Site:	Enter here

New Life Art Competition

Park Gallery and Cheltenham’s Christian Arts Festival invite artists to create art on the theme ‘New Life’ for a chance to win £1,000 and gallery representation.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection Notification: Friday 13th March 2023. Last closed: 27th February 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: £1,000 (plus representation at Park Gallery for three months with review to extend) Second Prize: £200 (plus representation at Park Gallery for one month for two paintings with review to extend)
Show:	Park Gallery, Cheltenham (April 2023)
What:	The theme is ‘New Life’ and all successful artworks will need to creatively embrace this idea. Painting/drawing/mixed media/sculpture are all accepted. Entrants will be judged on how well the theme has been incorporated into their artwork. Consideration will also be given to the artist’s approach to typical elements of art such as creativity, composition, colour, technique etc. It is necessary that both the artwork and artist are available for the awards evening on 20th April 2023.
Who:	UK based artists (over 18)
Fees:	Free to enter (max 2 submissions)
Site:	Enter here

Stone Lane Sculpture Exhibition

Open call for emerging sculptors in South West of England with a chance to win the £1,000 Ashburner prize on the theme ‘Sense of Place’.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection notification: mid March. Last closed: 28th February 2023.
Prize:	Ashburner Prize: £1,000
Show:	Stone Lane Gardens, Newton Abbot (1 Jun – 31 Oct 2023)
What:	This year’s theme is ‘Sense of Place’ – reflecting upon the relationship between sculpture and the lived experience of place. With Dartmoor as its backdrop, the exhibition presents a dialogue between artist and the natural world, site and memory, longing and belonging, human histories and contested territories.
Who:	Emerging/early career sculptors based in or connected to the South West of England.
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

B Arts Blank Space

If you were given a wall, what would you write on it? B Arts invites creative proposals for the wall of their No.72 building in Stoke-on-Trent.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection notification: by the end of 10th March. Last closed: 8th March 2023.
Prize:	Fee: £1,500 (B Arts will provide mentoring and install the work with you)
Show:	B arts, 72 Hartshill Road, Stoke-On-Trent (28 Apr – 23 Jun)
What:	“Opportunity for artists to take time to explore an issue or theme of their choice on the wall outside our No.72 building. We’re keen to support artists as they learn about a topic, and in the research and development of a new body of work. The Blank Space is 2.5 metres high by 3.4 metres wide. The artist has freedom to work with this space in any 2D medium and adapt, develop, or change the work between a set time period. You’ll be given technical support, and an experienced mentor if you want one. The building is in a very visible space, and on a major bus route, meaning the work will be seen by hundreds of people each day. This is a great opportunity to experiment with new work and fresh ideas, and to talk loudly about something important to you. To apply, email info@b-arts.org.uk with an outline of your idea and how you’d make the work. That can be either in writing (no more than one side of A4) or a short video. Tell us why the issue or idea matters. Give us some examples of previous work, or show us how you’re ready to make the work.”
Who:	Artists available to complete the work in Stoke-On-Trent this April (Install 24th-28th April).
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Mark Tanner Sculpture Award

An £10,000 prize awaits an emerging sculptor (of any age) towards the production of new work culminating in a solo London exhibition.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Interviews for shortlisted artists will be held at Standpoint the week commencing 10th April 2023. Last closed: 18th March 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £10,000 (to assist in the production of a new body of work made in 3 payments over the course of the year, at the end of which there will be a solo exhibition at Standpoint Gallery)
Show:	Standpoint Gallery, London (TBA)
What:	Sculpture
Who:	UK based artists (excluding BA and MA students, no age limit)
Fees:	£15 fee
Site:	Enter here

John Moores Painting Prize

One of the UK’s most prestigious painting competitions culminates in an exhibition at the Walker Art Gallery as part of the Liverpool Biennial.

Close:	TBAcurrently closed
News:	Artists notified if they are through to Stage 2: Week of 15 May. Last closed: 24th March 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £25,000 Lady Grantchester Prize: £5,000 (£2,500 cash and £2,500 worth of Winsor & Newton art materials, residency and display at Elephant West in London. Open to final year art students and those within two years of graduation.) Further Prizes: £2,500 (4 x £2,500 prizes)
Show:	Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool (16 Sep 2023 – 25 Feb 2024)
What:	Submissions must be wholly or partly executed in any painted medium and designed to hang on or be fixed to a wall.
Who:	UK based artists (18+)
Fees:	£30
Site:	Enter here

Ruth Borchard Self-Portrait Prize

Biennial £10,000 prize celebrating contemporary self-portraiture. The judges include Gabriele Finaldi, Director of the National Gallery.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	For exhibition works must be for sale and include the gallery’s 50% commission in the sale price. Last closed: 31st March 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £10,000
Show:	The Atkinson Museum, Southport (Sep – Dec 2023)
What:	Accepted media includes: painting, drawing, digital art, photography, sculpture, tapestry and ceramics.
Who:	UK & International artists of all ages
Fees:	£35.00 from a UK based bank account, £45.00 if payment is being made from overseas
Site:	Enter here

On Paper Printmaking Contest

Annual international printmaking project to promote the art of printmaking and develop connections between printmakers around the world.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	The international jury will select between 10 – 15 prints. Artists shortlisted for the prize and the exhibition will be notified via social media by May 1st 2023. Last closed: 1st April 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: €1,000
Show:	Tinta Invisible, Barcelona (July 2023)
What:	Each artist can submit one piece of work on a paper size of 30cm x 40cm. The print size can be any within the size of the paper. The work can be horizontal or vertical. The work must have been made using any traditional printmaking techniques, including screenprinting, lithography, etching, engraving, collagraph, monotype, block printing, woodcut, electro-etching, photo etching, photopolymer, etc. We also encourage artists to use non-toxic techniques. Digital prints (prints made with a printer) are not accepted. However, digital processes can be used to elaborate prints that are traditionally printed.
Who:	UK & International
Fees:	€26 entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Figurativas 2023

The Fundació Privada de les Arts i els Artistes announces its 12th edition with a figurative painting and sculpture prizes of €20,000 and €10,000.

Close:	TBAcurrently closed
News:	Selection notification by email on 19th May, 2023. Last closed: 16th April 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize for Painting: €20,000 1st Prize for Sculpture: €10,000 Monographic Exhibition Prize: Solo show at MEAM (individual exhibition on the third floor of MEAM, Barcelona) Artelibre Prize: €500 Artistic Material Award Artemiranda: €500 Artistic Material Award Escoda: €450 Art Renewal Center Acquisition Award: Purchase Prize (Art Renewal Center will purchase a work for their permanent collection) Artistic Scholarship Award: BAA Prize (Summer 2024 Drawing/Painting course at Barcelona Academy of Art) Category Awards: €250
Show:	Museu Europeu d’Art Modern (MEAM),, Barcelona (opens 5 Oct 2023)
What:	Theme and technique is open to the artist but should always be in the figurative art modality. All types of painting techniques are accepted i.e. graffiti, engraving, graphite, pastel, charcoal, colour pencils, pen, watercolour, tempera, oil, acrylic, mixed media, digital painting. Painting minimum dimensions: 40 x 40cm, maximum: 200 x 200cm. Sculpture: minimum dimensions 40 x 40 x 40cm, maximum to 100 x 100 x 200 cm. Categories: Landscape, Drawing/Illustration, Young Talent: participants under 25, Still life, Figure and Portrait, Digital Art.
Who:	UK and International artists
Fees:	€40 per work
Site:	Enter here

This Is Gender (In) Equality

Free to enter global competition exploring gender equality through visual media from around the world.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist candidates notified: May. Last closed: 23rd April 2023.
Prize:	4 x Category Winners: £500
Show:	Online exhibition
What:	This year’s call for submissions is oriented around four themes; i) Gender (In)Equality and health; ii) Gender (In)Equality at work; iii) Gender (In)Equality & planetary health; and iv) Gender (In)Equality & sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). All forms of still visual media including for example mixed-media photography, illustration, drawing, painting, collages or new media. Individuals and collectives are welcome to participate. People from all backgrounds and from all around the world are encouraged to submit photographs and imagery that raise questions and respond to the themes. Submissions from low and middle-income communities without formal artistic training are especially welcomed.
Who:	UK & International
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

RBSA Summer Show

Summer Show celebrating and supporting artists works in any medium for an exhibition at the RBSA Gallery in Birmingham.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selected artists announced: 5th May by 4pm. Last closed: 25th April 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £500 Second Prize: £250
Show:	RBSA Gallery, Birmingham (15 Jun – 22 Jul 2023)
What:	All media accepted. Must be for sale.
Who:	UK and international artists
Fees:	£13 per work(50% discount for artists under 35. Free for Honorary RBSA Members and Graduate Artists. RBSA Friends pay £13 display fee per work selected.)
Site:	Enter here

Young Botanical Artist Competition

Open to artists aged 16-25 to submit 2D botanical artworks depicting trees, leaves and anything that exists in between.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Winners announced: 30th June 2023. Last closed: 30th April 2023.
Prize:	Overall Winner: £750 (1 per category) Highly Commended: £250 (2 per category) All winners and People’s Choice Artist will receive an art supplies bundle worth £100
Show:	The Shirley Sherwood Gallery, Kew Gardens (October 2023)
What:	Botanical artworks that represent their subject creatively, but with scientific accuracy. A4, A3 or A2 size.
Who:	UK & International artists (Age categories: 16-18 and 19-25)
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Liverpool Plinth Open Call

The Northern response to London’s Trafalgar Square Fourth Plinth. Now open to sculptors from the Midlands & North of England.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Artists notidied: 25th May 2023. Installation June 2023. Last closed: 30th April 2023.
Prize:	Award: £1,000
What:	Visually impactful work that makes a real statement and provokes conversation – and even argument. Only work which has already been produced will be considered. Work must comfortably fit onto the plinth, which measures 215 x 123cm OR the plinth and the surrounding area of roof. Work must weigh 400kg or less. Work must be suitable for the environment, i.e. able to withstand an outdoor location, rain, salt spray etc, for the full 12 month duration. The selected sculpture will be displayed from July 2023 – June 2024.
Who:	Sculptors living or working in the Midlands and North of England (North West, North East, Yorkshire and the Humber, West Midlands, East Midlands)
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

Margate Art Prize

A new annual prize open to emerging artists (all artists not currently formally represented by a gallery) working in 2D. Winner will be selected by Tracey Emin.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Exhibition for shortlisted artists in July 2023. Last closed: 1st May 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £2,000 (winner selected by Tracey Emin)
Show:	Ramsay & Williams Gallery, Margate (July 2023)
What:	Two dimensional artworks. “Hell or High Water” is the theme for this year’s prize. All submissions to ramsayandwilliams@gmail.com. Please include: your name, a brief biography & artist’s statement, a quality image of your submission, dimensions of the artwork (cm), an optional supporting image which can be unrelated to the prize theme and the price of the artwork, should you wish to sell in Ramsay & Williams Gallery.
Who:	UK and International artists not currently formally represented by a gallery.
Fees:	Free to enter.
Site:	Enter here

Future Generation Art Prize

Biennial global contemporary art prize to discover, recognize and give long-term support to a future generation of artists up the age of 35.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist announcement: Early July 2023. Deadline extended from 30th April to 14th May. Last closed: 14th May 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: $100,000 ($60,000 USD cash and $40,000 investment in the artist’s practice) Special Prizes: $20,000 (Up to 5 special prizes are awarded at the discretion of the jury. A total amount of $20,000 will be awarded to special prize winners for supporting projects that develop their artistic practice.)
Show:	Pinchuk Art Centre, Kyiv, Ukraine (Oct – Dec 2023 then May – August, 2024 in Venice)
What:	Any medium.
Who:	UK and International artists aged between 18 and 35.
Fees:	Free to enter.
Site:	Enter here

D31 Summer Exhibition 2023

Call for entries on the theme of “Power” to show selected artists online and at the the Doncaster based gallery with a prize fund of £600.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection Notification: 19th – 21st May 2023. Last closed: 18th May 2023.
Prize:	Commission Fee: £500 (winning artist will be commissioned to create a piece (60 x 80cm) for the gallery’s permanent collection.) People’s Choice: £100
Show:	D31 Art Gallery, Doncaster (8th July to 9th September 2023)
What:	Any medium. Theme: Power. ‘What is Power? What does it represent? How do we experience it? How do we respond to it?’.
Who:	UK and international artists
Fees:	£10, £8 for additional entries, max 5 (£30 fee if selected for gallery and online exhibition. £15 fee if selected for online exhibition only.)
Site:	Enter here

International FiKVA Award

Global online competition for representational & figurative painters with €5,000 in cash prizes and and online group exhibition.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Notification of Top 35 Selection: Jun 25, 2023 (by email and social media). Last closed: 18th May 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: €3,000 (online exhibition and interview) Second Prize: €1,500 (online exhibition and interview) Third Prize: €500 (online exhibition and interview)
Show:	Online exhibition of 35 finalists (opens 11th July, 2023)
What:	2D representational and figurative paintings. Acceptable media: oil, water-soluble oil paint, acrylic paints, watercolour, ink, gouache, tempera and all traditional mediums on any support – canvas, board, paper, wood, panel, wall, aluminum, glass etc. Work must have been completed between 2021 and 2023. No comics, airbrush, digital or mechanical work is accepted.
Who:	UK & International artists (18+)
Fees:	1 work: €32, €16 for each additional work (max 4)
Site:	Enter here

The Lumen Prize

Lumen Art Projects, a not-for-profit based in Wales, run this $14.5k global competition to celebrate the best art created with technology.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Up to 70 artists will be longlisted and are invited to join the Lumen Artist Community. One will be offered a 4 week residency in Barcelona in 2024 with accommodation, use of equipment and one week show. Last closed: 26th May 2023 at 6pm.
Prize:	Gold Award: $4,000 (overall winner) Moving Image Award: $1,000 (for 2D work using any digital process) Still Image Award: $1,000 (for time-based work using any digital process) 3D/Interactive Award: $1,000 (for work that engages with audiences through sound, touch or movement) Immersive Environment Award: $1,000 (for an immersive experience using any digital processes) Generative Art Award: $1,000 (for work created by an artist, an artist collective or DAO using an autonomous, non-human system) BCS Futures Award: $1,000 (for work that explores future relationships between society and technology) Global Majority Award: $1,000 (for art created with technology by an artist or collective from Africa, Latin America or the developing economies of Asia and the Middle East) Nordic Award: $1,000 (for art created with technology by an artist or collective from Nordic Countries. Will also be invited to give a lecture about their practice at Sørlandets Kunstmuseum/KUNSTSILO) Crypto Award: $1,000 (for work by an artist, artist collective or DAO that represents the cutting edge of the blockchain ecosystem) HUA Award: $1,000 (for art created with technology by a Chinese artist or collective living and working in China) Student Award: $500 (for art created with technology by a student currently enrolled in a degree programme)
Show:	Awards night at Aures, London on 19 Oct, exhibition at Annka Kultys Gallery, London (14 Sep – 14 Oct)
What:	All art is eligible as long as it engages with technology in some form.
Who:	UK & International artists.
Fees:	Early bird before 24th March: $38.00 for 2 works. Regular: $42 for 2 works (free to enter for first 100 students to apply)
Site:	Enter here

FLAMIN Fellowship

Annual award to support England based moving image artists at the early stages of their career to develop new projects.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection Interviews: Weeks beginning 24 July & 31 July 2023. Last closed: 30th May 2023.
Prize:	Awards: £2,500 (six fellowship awards of £2,500 each)
What:	Artists working with moving image, with an innovative and boundary-pushing approach to the medium.
Who:	Artists resident in England with a professional artistic practice outside of higher education for at least 2 years, but no more than 7 (higher education not a pre-requisite).
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

London Art Biennale

Up to 400 artists will be selected for the 6th edition of the London Art Biennale with a £10,000 prize fund and group exhibitions in London and Tuscany.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Approximately 300-400 artists will be selected for the London exhibition. Last closed: 31st May 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: £5,000 Painting Award: £1,500 Sculpture/Installation Award: £1,500 Works on Paper Award: £1,500 Digital/Video Award: £1,500 Chianciano Biennale 2024: (25 artists to get group show in Tuscany, Italy)
Show:	Chelsea Old Town Hall, London (26th – 31st July 2023)
What:	Accepted artistic disciplines include works on canvas, works on board, works on paper, applied arts such as collage/mixed medias, photography, digital art, video art, sculpture and installation.
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	£36 per work
Site:	Enter here

Scottish Landscape Awards

Open to anyone born, living or studying in Scotland (over 16) working in any media. £26,000 of prizes, exhibition at City Art Centre, Edinburgh.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Notification of selection: 5 July 2023. Last closed: 31st May 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £10,000 2nd Prize: £5,000 3rd Prize: £1,000 City of Edinburgh Award: £5,000 (work depicting the Edinburgh landscape, will become part of the City of Edinburgh collection) Environmental Art Award: £3,000 Young Landscape Artist Award: £1,000 (ages 16–25) Photography Award: £1,000
Show:	City Art Centre, Edinburgh (4 Nov 2023 – 3 Mar 2024)
What:	Works in any media by individuals or teams of artists – painting, drawing, printmaking, collage, all forms of sculpture, animation, textiles, photography, installation, video, multi-media, virtual reality landscapes – and more. Works entered may be imaginary, surreal, abstract, documentary, ecological, realistic – anything is possible as long as the work carries a strong sense of place or context. Works that reflect all dimensions of natural and/or man-made environments – rural, urban, industrial, suburban, forest, mountain and seascapes, interior/exterior, minute/enlarged and more.
Jury:	Barbara Rae (chair), Ade Adesina, Marian Leven, David Mach, Jane and Louise Wilson
Who:	Artists over 16 born, living or studying in Scotland.
Fees:	£10 per work (Free entry for artists living in Scotland on income support or Universal Credit.)
Site:	Enter here

The Gilchrist Fisher Award

Biennial award, first won by Peter Doig in 1991, established in memory of Alasdair Gilchrist-Fisher, a landscape painter who died of cancer at the age of 24.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	See previous year’s winners. Last closed: 1st June 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £6,000
What:	All media except video and installation. Theme: Artists addressing landscape.
Who:	Artists under the age of 30 on 1st January 2024
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

The Young Masters Art Prize

Rewards contemporary artists to look back to the art of the past and art history to inspire their work, whether through technique, concept, theme or medium.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist date TBA. Last closed: 11th June 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £1,500 2 x Highly Commended: £500 Ceramics First Prize: £1,000 Ceramics Commended: £500 Emerging Woman Artist: £1,000 People’s Choice: £500
Show:	67 York Street, London (3-15 October 2023)
What:	Any media (separate ceramics prizes). Artists who show originality, skill and imagination in response to the art of the past. You can interpret this as widely and creatively as you wish.
Who:	UK & international artists (18+)
Fees:	£38 entry (Allows up to 2 artworks. Shortlisted artists contribute £75 towards storing their work with Art Logistics for 6 months. Works submitted must be available for sale, 50% commission to Young Masters.)
Site:	Enter here

Cerco International Contemporary Ceramics Award

Promoting contemporary ceramics since 2000, Cerco 2023 is open to contemporary artists from around the world of any age, emerging or established.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist TBC. Last closed: 11th June 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: €6,000
Show:	Asociación Profesional de Artesanos de Aragón, Zaragoza, Spain
What:	Any subject matter using ceramics as a medium. Dimensions may not exceed 2m. along their longest side, or 1m3 total volume, and none of them may weigh more than 50 kg each.
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	No Entry Fee (2 works max)
Site:	Enter here

Holt Festival Art Prizes

Established in 2012 these awards and exhibition invite artists from across the UK to be part of the thriving Holt Festival in North Norfolk.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Young Artists competition closes 12th November 2023. Last closed: 11th June 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £2,000 Charlotte Fraser Ceramics Prize: £1,000 (ceramic or glass not more than 60cm in any direction) Sworders Art Prize for Emerging Artists: £750 (ages 19-23) Sworders Art Prize for for Young Artists: £500 (ages 16-18)
Show:	Exhibition venue TBA (20-29 July 2023). Young Artists exhibition (3-10 Dec 2023)
What:	Artists may use any medium they wish and depict any subject matter. Artworks must be wall hanging, max size 1.25m x 1.25m x 0.4m inc. frame (if any).
Who:	UK based artists
Fees:	£14 for one image, £25 for two, £35 for three
Site:	Enter here

Evening Standard Art Prize

Evening Standard has joined forces with Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle to offer a £5,000 cash prize and a bespoke fragrance to the winner.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Last held in 2018. Previous winner. Last closed: 15th June 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £5,000 (and a bespoke fragrance from Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle)
Show:	Group show for 12 shortlisted artists at Cromwell Place, London (Sep 2023)
What:	The theme for 2023 is ‘A Portrait of You’. Artists in the fields of sculpture, textiles, ceramics, glassware, jewellery and wood carving are invited to submit a work, or a coherent series of works, that celebrates self-expression and the individuality and personality that can be shown through their art form. Entrants will be required to submit three to five images of their work, from different angles and distances, along with 150-200 words about themselves and their submission.
Who:	UK residents age 18 and over. Excluding those who have had a solo exhibition in a public institution.
Past:	Last held in 2018 – previous winner.
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

The RSA William Littlejohn Award

Monetary award to research, develop and produce a new body of work in a water-based medium with an exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Winner announced by end of September 2023. Last closed: 25th June 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £2,000 (and 2024 exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy)
Show:	Royal Scottish Academy, Edinburgh (2024 dates TBC)
What:	Any water-based medium.
Who:	Entrants must be born in Scotland or have been resident in Scotland for at least 3 years. Students must either be graduating in 2023 or currently studying at postgraduate level at a Scottish art school.
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Contemporary British Painting Prize

Organised by painters, for painters to promote current painting from UK based artists with group exhibitions in Huddersfield and London.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Longlist on or before 23rd July (maximum 60 artists), shortlist on or before 30th July 2023 (minimum 12 artists). Last closed: 30th June 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £8,000 (plus catalogue essay and invitation to become a member of Contemporary British Painting as well as a selector for the CBP Prize 2024) Highly Commended Award: £2,000 £400 exhibitor’s fee: (for at least 12 artists who will show at least three pieces each in 2 exhibitions)
Show:	Huddersfield Art Gallery, Huddersfield (16 Sep – 11 Nov 2023 Thames-Side Studios Gallery, London (1–17 Dec 2023)
What:	Painting. A visual artwork produced using a paint medium such as oil, tempera, acrylic, emulsion, enamel or watercolour which once completed results in a physical object (created after 1st Jan 2021).
Who:	Artists of all nationalities who live in the UK, including students, are eligible. You must be aged 18 years or above on 30 June 2023 and living and professionally based in the UK. (This includes England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Channel Islands and Isle of Man.)
Fees:	£20 total fee (5 works are asked for to give selectors a better understanding of your work. They will choose a minimum of 3 works from each of the shortlisted artists for exhibition.)
Site:	Enter here

Artists’ Collecting Society Studio Prize

Founded in 2006 the ACS Studio Prize offers artists starting their career the chance to win £6,000 towards the cost of an artist’s studio in the UK.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Winner announced by week beginning 19 September 2023. Last closed: 30th June 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £6,000 (towards UK art studio costs)
What:	Pictures, collage, painting, sculpture, tapestry, ceramics, glassware or photography.
Who:	All UK, EU and EEA nationals worldwide. Must be a current undergraduate or postgraduate art student who is about to graduate, or has graduated from a university art course within the last four years.
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

International Original Print Exhibition

Established by the Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers at the Bankside Gallery to showcase the best in contemporary printmaking across all techniques.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist notified by 6pm on 27th July. Last closed: 5th July 2023.
Prize:	Thames-Side Print Studio Prize: £650 (annual membership of studio, 50 open access sessions & a place on a print course of choice worth circa £650) Jackson’s Art Supplies Award: £250 (art supplies voucher) Ironbridge Fine Arts Printmaker Prize: £180 (spindle roller to the value of £180) Hawthorn Printmaker Supplies Award: £150 (art supplies voucher) John Purcell Paper Award: £150 (materials to the value of £150) Society of Wood Engravers Prize: £100 (plus a one-year subscription and free entry for selection process to SWE Annual Exhibition) Various other prizes, view full list
Show:	Bankside Gallery, London (21 Sep – 1 Oct 2023)
What:	Any forms of original printmaking are eligible.
Who:	UK & International artists (18 and over)
Fees:	£16 per work (max 6, students £10 per work)
Site:	Enter here

RWA Annual Open Exhibition

International competition celebrating 170 years of Annual Open Exhibitions at The Royal West of England Academy, Bristol’s first art gallery.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Results live: 22nd July 2023. Last closed: 5th July 2023.
Prize:	Prizes: £1,000 (full list to be announced soon, 2022 prize fund was over £6,000)
Show:	Royal West of England Academy (RWA), Bristol (9 Sep 2023 – 14 Jan 2024)
What:	Any medium.
Who:	UK & International artists.
Past:	168th exhibition – previous winners.
Fees:	£21 per item for General Public, £15.90 for Students & Friends of the RWA, £10.50 for RWA Artist Network members, Free for RWA Academicians.
Site:	Enter here

Lab ROME’23

International contemporary art prize from Malamegi Lab, open to artists working in all media with a final exhibition for 12 participants in Rome.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Notification of the 12 selected artists: 11 July 2023. Last closed: 6th July 2023.
Prize:	Purchase Prize: €2,000 (an artwork will be purchased up to the value of €2,000) Artistic Research Prize: €1,000 (towards a chosen artist’s development of new work and research) Monographic Book Prize: Art Book (a book will be created of a chosen artist’s work along with printing and production)
Show:	28 Piazza di Pietra, Rome (14-28 Oct 2023)
What:	Painting, Sculpture, Photography, Mixed media, Digital, Video, Graphics, Net art, other (all visual works that can be reproduced through a picture are allowed)
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	1 artwork: €45, 2 artworks: €75, 3 artworks: €105
Site:	Enter here

Aire Place Studios presents Win it! 2023

Annual exhibition from Leeds based gallery aims to bring together fantastic works from local, regional, and national artists.

Close:	TBAcurrently closed
News:	Successful Applications Notified: 21st July 2023. Last closed: 7th July 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £300 Runner-Up Prize: Solo Show (awarded a solo exhibition at Cole’s Gallery.) People’s Choice Award: Membership (APS Associate Membership worth £45)
Show:	Aire Place Studios, Leeds (1 Sep – 29 Sep 2023)
What:	No them, all art mediums will be considered.
Who:	UK based artists (18+)
Fees:	£15 per work (max 6)
Site:	Enter here

Theo Paphitis Art Prize

The TV dragon and owner of London Graphic Centre returns for the second outing of his drawing and painting prize on the theme ‘Connection’.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	People’s Choice voting opens: 9th August 2023. Last closed: 9th July 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: £5,000 (+ £500 worth of materials from London Graphic Centre + £500 voucher from Liquitex and Winsor & Newton + £500 voucher from Pebeo) People’s Choice Award: £2,000 (+ £250 worth of materials from London Graphic Centre + £250 voucher from Liquitex and Winsor & Newton) The One To Watch: £500 (+ £100 worth of materials from London Graphic Centre + £100 voucher from Liquitex and Winsor & Newton + Mentoring from a Citylit tutor)
Show:	London Graphic Centre, Covent Garden store (from 14th September)
What:	2 dimensional artwork in any painting or drawing media. Theme: ‘Connection’. Connection is a universal concept that touches on the core of human experiences. It allows artists to explore the ways in which people relate and communicate with one another, promoting understanding and empathy through their works, but also the way we respond to our surroundings. The theme of connection can be interpreted in countless ways, allowing artists to explore a wide range of ideas, mediums, and techniques.
Who:	UK based artists (age 18 and over)
Past:	Last year’s winners
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

The RSA MacRobert Art Award

£20,000 annual award for Scottish born or based mid-career painters to enable a 12-month period of research and development.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Winner announced by end of Autumn 2023. Last closed: 16th July 2023.
Prize:	Award: £20,000 (The winner will exhibit selected resulting work alongside other RSA award winners at the Academy the following year)
Show:	Royal Scottish Academy, Edinburgh (2024 dates TBC)
What:	Any water-based medium.
Who:	The award is for Fine Art (Painting) of any medium or subject. Entrants must be born or living in Scotland, at least 10 years after graduation or after 10 years of substantive practice.
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Art Gemini Prize

Returning for its 10th edition with a prize fund of £4,000 and group exhibition at the Zari Gallery in Fitzrovia, London.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist Announcement: 8th August 2023. Last closed: 16th July 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: £2,000 2nd Prize: £1,000 3rd Prize: £500 Young Artist Prize: £500 (up to age 25) Hampstead School of Art Choice Prize: £400 (Course Voucher)
Show:	Zari Gallery, London (20-28 Sep 2023)
What:	Acceptable mediums and genres of 2D and 3D including painting, oil, mixed media, drawing, ink, watercolour, calligraphy, original print, photography, digital art, sculpture, and ceramic, excluding installation and video. (Maximum size 120 x 120cm inclusive frame except 3D sculpture maximum size 70 x 70 x 70cm)
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	1 work: £20, 3 works: £40, 6 works: £60, 8 works: £70
Site:	Enter here

RBSA Drawing Prize 2023

All drawing practices are welcome, including digital drawing and 3D works, from professional and emerging artists from across the region and beyond.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selected artists announced: 8th August by 4pm. Last closed: 24th July 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £1,000 Second Prize: £500 Third Prize: £250 Arthur Lockwood Prize: £300 (for artist ages 35 and under)
Show:	RBSA Gallery, Birmingham (5 Sep – 14 Oct 2023)
What:	All styles and mediums, the only restriction is that the technique must be drawing.
Who:	UK and international artists
Fees:	1 work: £19, 2 works: £32, 3 works: £40, 4 works: £48 (Free for RBSA Graduate Artists, 50% discount for artists under 35)
Site:	Enter here

Dover Prize 2023

£10,000 bursary for UK based artist or collective to provide time to think, research, reflect and/or experiment with new ideas.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	If shortlisted, you will receive an offer by email to attend an interview by video conference. Last closed: 30th July 2023.
Prize:	Bursary: £10,000 (paid across two years, to an individual or collective to provide time to think, research, reflect and/or experiment with new ideas, to create work that will be premiered in Darlington.)
What:	Applications are welcome from artists working in the visual arts e.g. painting, sculpture, ceramics, print-making, photography, digital art, film making, performance and installations.. Artists applying must meet a minimum of 3 of the following criteria: – The artist is regularly making and exhibiting artwork. – The artist has received professional grants or awards. – The artist is involved in organising self-created professional opportunities, for example running an artist-led studio or project. – The artist has a degree in visual or applied arts at undergraduate and/or post-graduate level. – The artist has been commissioned by a public institution. – The artist’s work has been previously purchased by a public collection. – The artist’s work has been previously reviewed or featured in an art journal, magazine, newspaper or on-line curated platform. – The artist is represented by a gallery. – The artist has taken part in a recognised residency or artist placement scheme.
Who:	UK based artists.
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

Art for Change Prize

M&C Saatchi Group & Saatchi Gallery’s second edition of thir £20k annual Art Prize asks artists to respond to the theme: ‘Regeneration’.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Regional winners announced: mid-October 2023. Overall winner announced: 21 November 2023. Deadline extended from 17th July to 31st August. Last closed: 31st July 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £10,000 5 Regional Winners: £2,000 (5 artists will receive £2,000 each)
Show:	Saatchi Gallery, London (22 Nov 2023 – 12 Jan 2024)
What:	Submitted works must creatively respond to the theme ‘Regeneration’ and have been executed since 1st January 2020. Accepted media includes painting, drawing, illustration, photography, collage, 2D mixed-media, video or film.
Who:	Artists based in UK, Europe, Americas, Asia, Australia, and Africa. (aged 18 or over and within the first five years of their artistic career)
Fees:	Free to enter (max 5 works)
Site:	Enter here

Beyond Future Art Prize

For artists around the world with a keen interest and focus on the environment, sustainable living and climate change in their work.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Winner announced: 10th September 2023. Last closed: 6th August 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: HK$33,000 (approx £3,400)
Show:	Pao Galleries, Hong Kong Arts Centre (12-15 Oct 2023)
What:	Original Painting, Drawing, Photography, Digital art, or Short films created after 2021. Theme: Reflection – “a moment to think about the environment; what kind of a relationship do we have with nature?”
Who:	UK & international artists (aged 15 and above)
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

SSA Annual Exhibition

For its 125th Annual exhibition The Society of Scottish Artists invites artists worldwide to submit entries for its winter show in a west coast venue.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Pre-selection notification: Friday 22 September 2023. Last closed: 21st August 2023.
Prize:	Prizes TBA (Prizes to be announced. £8000+ prize money awarded in 2021)
Show:	Maclaurin Art Gallery, Ayr (19 Nov 2023 – 14 Jan 2024)
What:	Painting, printmaking, photography, drawing and sculpture. All selected works must be for sale.
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	Non members £15 per work, free for members (max 3 entries). Annual membership fees: Student: £10, Graduate: £20, Artist: £40 (Work selected for the exhibition will be subject to £5 admin fee per work for SSA members and £15 per work for non-members, to be paid on delivery)
Site:	Enter here

Wales Contemporary / Cymru Gyfoes

International open competition with a £12,000+ prize fund developed by the Waterfront Gallery with support from the Welsh Government.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection Results: 12th September 2023, Last closed: 21st August 2023.
Prize:	Open Prize: £3,000 2D 1st Prize: £2,000 2D 2nd Prize: £1,000 2D 3rd Prize: £750 2D 4th Prize: £500 3D 1st Prize: £2,000 3D 2nd Prize: £1,000 3D 3rd Prize: £500 Public Choice: £1,000 Public Choice 2nd Prize: £250
Show:	Waterfront Gallery, Milford Haven (20 Oct – 20 Dec 2023)
What:	2 or 3 dimensional artwork in any medium apart from photography, digital prints or film. Accepted mediums include painting, sculpture, drawing, print, ceramic, glass, textile, collage, mixed media and more. Artwork must be for sale, price inclusive of 30% commission and made in the last three years (2D max length: 70cm, 3D max size: 50cm)
Who:	UK and international artists. (over 18)
Past:	Article on 2022 Winners
Fees:	£15 for one work, £25 for two and £30 for three.
Site:	Enter here

maltabiennale.art 2024

MUŻA invites artists and curators worldwide to submit challenging, curious and immersive experiences for the Malta Biennale from March-May 2024.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	All applicants will receive their official result notification by 16th October 2023. Last closed: 25th August 2023.
Prize:	Grants: €13,000 (artists selected will be provided financial support up to a maximum per project of Eur 13,000.)
Show:	MUZA – Museum of Fine Arts, Valletta, Malta (March–May 2024)
What:	Theme: ‘white sea olive groves’ – “an imagining of an array of whites from ancient and contemporary times, shaped into a vast cradle within which civilisation relishes myriads of cultures, art, and diversity: a visual festa inspired by a process of formulating new narratives for the region. Narratives that confront the horrendous stink of death by drowning; narratives that can defeat discourse fuelling fundamentalism and nationalism – a choral ‘hymn to the universe’, celebrating peace and harmony, defying war(s) with olive branches in hand, gleaned from the evergreen olive groves of the Mediterranean, blending with the sparkling whiteness of the seas that surround them: a provocative artistic initiative inviting a rethink of global mindsets about art and society, emanating from the deep south of the European continent.”
Who:	UK & International artists.
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

The Cooper Prize 2023

Formerly known as South Yorkshire Open Art Competition – open to artists who are born, live or work in South Yorkshire for an exhibition at Cooper Gallery.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Approximately 80 works will be put forward for final judging and to be included in the exhibition. Artists selected for the final exhibition will be contacted by email around 2nd October 2023. Last closed: 29th August 2023.
Prize:	Main Prize: £1,000 (and solo show in Sadler Room 2024) Emerging Artist: £500 (Open to any student or graduate that has graduated within the past 2 years) Barnsley College Special Award for Originality and Skills: £100 (student/recent graduate) The Fox Gift: £100 (£100 vouchers to spend on Artist Materials, for artists under 16) Peoples Choice: Hamper (Hamper of artists supplies)
Show:	The Cooper Gallery, Barnsley (dates TBA)
What:	Submit up to 3 pieces of artwork, whether it be abstract, figurative, contemporary or traditional.
Who:	Artists who are born, live or work in South Yorkshire (under 16s free)
Fees:	£10 per artist, £5 students/recent grauduates, Under 16s free (max 3 works)
Site:	Enter here

The Sussex Contemporary

Annual exhibition that takes place on the Brighton seafront to showcase the work of artists based, born or educated in Sussex.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection notification: 12th September 2023. Last closed: 31st August 2023.
Prize:	Creative Pod Prize: £1,000 (worth of creative services) Seawhite Prize: £500 (worth of art materials) MPB Prize: £500 (worth of photography gear)
Show:	British Airways i360, Brighton (6-22 Oct 2023)
What:	Theme: Metamorphosis. The term ‘metamorphosis’ is elusive and multi-layered. Biologically, it signifies a complete change of the form or nature of a thing or person into a completely different one. It also describes a change by supernatural means and can relate to the inner psychological transformations of being and identity. Artworks can be created in various media, including but not limited to; painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking, jewellery, photography, ceramics, mixed media, and illustration to stun and captivate visitors. The artwork submitted must be original work and must be available for sale.
Who:	Artists based/born or studied in Sussex, England
Fees:	£15 (max 3 entries)
Site:	Enter here

Women United Art Prize

A contemporary art prize aimed at celebrating global female artists working in 2D format, organized by Women United art movement.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Longlist announced: 31st October, Shorlist: 15th November 2023. Last closed: 31st August 2023.
Prize:	Category Winners: €500 (plus online solo exhibition, interviews & subscriptions) 2nd & 3rd Prizes: €50 (of art materials, plus online group show, interviews & subscriptions)
Show:	Online exhibition at Women United
What:	Categories: Drawing & Painting, Photography & Printmaking, Collage & Fiber Art, Digital Art.
Who:	UK & International women artists (open to all women-identifying artists worldwide, regardless of their education, age, sexual orientation, race, career stage, location.)
Past:	2022 finalists: Drawing & Painting, Collage & Fibre Art, Photography & Printmaking, Digital Art.
Fees:	€8 per entry (Max 5 artworks)
Site:	Enter here

ING Discerning Eye Exhibition

Two artists, two collectors and two critics choose both publicly submitted works alongside works by invited artists for six mini-exhibitions within the exhibition.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Notification of results by Monday 2 October 2023. Last closed: 31st August 2023.
Prize:	ING Purchase Prize: £5,000 ING Founder’s Prize: £2,500 Drawing Bursary Prize: £1,500 DE Chair’s Purchase Prize: £1,500 Parker Harris Prize: £600 value (one year’s subscription to The Art Ladder mentoring programme for artists, and two one-to-one mentoring sessions, worth £600) Mervyn Metcalf Purchase Prize: £500 DE Sculpture Prize: £300 DE Cityscape Prize: £300 DE Landscape Prize: £300 DE Portrait Prize: £300 DE Print Prize: £300 Regional Prizes: £250 Tabish Khan’s Critic Purchase Prize: £200
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (16-26 Nov 2023)
What:	All mediums are eligible and all works must be an original creation by the artist; prints (including prints from i-pad drawings), photographs, and sculptures. (Max size: 50cm in any direction. Work must be for sale.)
Jury:	Tony Adams (Former footballer and Collector), Eliza Gluckman (Director, Government Art Collection), Péjú Oshin (critic, curator, writer, lecturer), Chris Levine (Artist), Ian “H” Watkins (Singer and Collector), Julian Wild (Artist and Lecturer).
Who:	UK residents only
Past:	2022 photos and winners on Making A Mark blog.
Fees:	One work: £15, Two: £30 Three: £40 Four: £50 Five: £60 Six: £70(max 6)
Site:	Enter here

New Artist of the Year Award

The Robert Walters Group in collaboration with Saatchi Gallery are looking for exceptional artists who are representative of contemporary Britain.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	10 finalists notified: 18 Sep 2023. London prize giving ceremony: 9 Nov 2023. Last closed: 3rd September 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £10,000 (and work shown at the Robert Walters Group head office for 12 months) Second Prize: £5,000 10 Shortlisted Artists: £200 (to attend London awards and artwork shipping costs) People’s Choice Award: Presentation (opportunity to take part in international presentation)
Show:	Saatchi Gallery, London (awards ceremony on 10th Nov 22)
What:	Theme: ‘The Journey of Self-Actualization: Exploring the Illusion of Greener Grass and the Pursuit of the Dream’. Artists should be working within one of the following fields: Fine Arts: painting, printmaking, photography, installation, sculpture. Applied arts: ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery. Digital Arts: Moving image, performance video, technological arts.
Who:	UK based artists within the first 10 years of professional practice (aged 18 years and over)
Past:	2022 winners and finalists.
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

The London Group Open

Celebrating its 85th open exhibition for UK based artists working in any medium, £10,000 in prizes and exhibition at Copeland Gallery, London.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Applicants whose work is selected for the exhibition will be notified by the end of September. Last closed: 5th September 2023.
Prize:	London Group Prize: £2,000 Jeff Lowe Sculpture prize: £1,000 JPES Partnership Prize: £1,000 Vic Kuell Memorial Prize for Innovation: £1,000 Under 35 Artist Prize: £1,000 Schauerman Prize for Digital Art: £500 Felix & Spear Exhibition Prize: (opportunity to exhibit work at Felix & Spear)
Show:	Copeland Gallery, London (9-26 Nov 2023)
What:	Any medium including, painting, sculpture, drawing, print, photography, mixed media, installation, video, sound, digital and performance.
Who:	UK based visual artists age 18 and over.
Past:	84th edition held in 2019: Previous Winners
Fees:	£20 for one submission, £35 for two, £45 for three
Site:	Enter here

Aesthetica Art Prize

Aesthetica is a British art and culture magazine whose annual prize celebrates excellence in art from across the world for emerging and established artists.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Results announced in January 2024. Up to 125 artists are selected for publication in the Art Prize Anthology. Last closed: 8th September 2023.
Prize:	Main Prize: £10,000 (group exhibition, magazine coverage & more) Emerging Prize: £1,000 (for students & graduates of last 2 years. Group exhibition, magazine coverage)
Show:	York Art Gallery, York (March – June 2024)
What:	Any discipline, any theme
Who:	UK & International artists (18+)
Fees:	Up to 2 works of art or series per entry. £25 (to 31 Aug 2023), £30 (1–8 Sep 2023)
Site:	Enter here

Society of Wildlife Artists Annual Exhibition

Seeks submissions of works that depict wildlife subjects and evoke the spirit of the natural world, based on ‘in the field’ observation.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Notification of selection: 22nd September. Last closed: 8th September 2023.
Prize:	Birdwatch and Swarovski Optik Artist of the Year Award: £2,430 value (Swarovski Optik ATS 80 HD spotting scope with 25-50x zoom eyepiece & subscription to BirdGuides/Birdwatch) BIRDscapes Award: £1,000 (split between artist and conservation charity of their choice) RSPB Award: £500 (worth of art materials) Oil Painting Prize: £500 (of Michael Harding materials) Watercolour Painting Prize: £500 (of Michael Harding materials) Dry Red Press Award: (winning work reproduced as a greetings card)
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (2-11 Nov 2023)
What:	Work may be in any medium including painting, sculpture and original prints.
Who:	UK & International artists (over 18)
Past:	2022 Prize Winners
Fees:	£20 per work, £14 if under 35 (All work must be for sale & include commission of 45%+VAT)
Site:	Enter here

Holdsworth House Art Competition

Submit your painting or sketch of the stunning Jacobean manor house hotel in West Yorkshire for a chance to stay where the Beatles once stayed!

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	All entrants will find out if their work has been shortlisted on 15th September via email. Last closed: 10th September 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: Artist On Holiday Prize (4 seasonal overnight breaks for 2 with dinner & breakfast, worth over £1500) 2nd Prize: Gift voucher (for Champagne Afternoon Tea for 4 at Holdsworth House) 3rd Prize: Gift Voucher (for Prosecco Afternoon Tea for 2 at Holdsworth House) People’s Choice Award: Vouchers (£100 art supplies voucher and voucher for Prosecco Afternoon Tea for 4 at Holdsworth House) Under 18s 1st Prize: £100 Voucher (art supplies voucher from Calder Art Supplies) Under 18s 2nd Prize: £50 Voucher (art supplies) Under 18s 3rd Prize: £25 Voucher (art supplies)
Show:	Holdsworth House, Halifax, West Yorkshire (winning work framed and displayed in the hotel for 12 months)
What:	2-D painting or drawing (oil, watercolour, acrylic, mixed media, pencil, charcoal, pastel, textiles, ink or digital) of the front view of Holdsworth House. View Image Gallery.
Jury:	Sally Wainwright OBE (screenwriter and director), Paul Dene Marlor (watercolour artist), Jo Bird (illustrator and artist), Gail Moss (Hotel Director)
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

The Bath Open Art Prize

Now in its 11th year and welcoming submissions from visual artists working in any medium, from across the globe.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Artists selected for the exhibition will be informed on 24th September. Last closed: 11th September 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: £500 2nd Prize: £250 People’s Choice: £50 (art vouchers)
Show:	44AD artspace, Bath (12 – 28 Oct 2023)
What:	Any medium. Developed as part of Fringe Arts Bath (FaB), alongside the established traditions, the prize welcomes more idiosyncratic and whimsical works that reflect FaB’s open approach.
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	£20 for 1 artwork, £30 for up to 3 artworks
Site:	Enter here

The Ingram Prize 2023

The Ingram Collection’s annual Purchase Prize Exhibition celebrates the work of graduating artists at the beginning of their careers.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection notification: 9th Oct 2023. Last closed: 18th September 2023.
Prize:	Prizes: 3 entries will be purchased, selected finalists will take part in a group show & invited on 1 week residency. Solo exhibitions at The Lightbox gallery, Surrey and TM Lighting Gallery, London.
Show:	Cromwell Place, London (22–26 Nov 2023)
What:	Any media
Who:	Artists within five years of graduation from a UK-based art school (over 18)
Fees:	No Entry Fee (max: 2 artworks)
Site:	Enter here

The Boomer Art Prize

£10,000 in cash awards +and exhibition opportunities for 20 finalists at The Boomer Gallery space near Tower Bridge, London.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	10th October: 50 preselected artists listed on website. 22nd October: The 20 finalists listed on website. Last closed: 25th September 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: £5,000 (+ a solo show) 2nd Prize: £500 (+ inclusion in two group shows) 3rd Prize: £100 (+ inclusion in one group show)
Show:	The Boomer Gallery, London (January 2024)
What:	Any media/theme. Eligible media, but not limited to: paintings, sculptures, photography, installations, prints, textiles, illustrations, digital art, poems, video art, AI-assisted art, etc.
Who:	UK & International artists.
Fees:	£35 entry fee (to submit 3 works)
Site:	Enter here

Luxembourg Art Prize

Annual international art prize from the Luxembourg based Pinacothèque Museum with €35,000 of prizes, be prepared for a hefty entry fee of around £55.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shorlist: 1st November 2023 (24 finalists). Last closed: 30th September 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: €20,000 2nd Prize: €10,000 3rd Prize: €5,000
What:	Drawing, printing, installation, painting, photography, sculpture, mixed techniques, decorative arts (textiles and materials, glass, wood, metal, ceramics, mosaics, paper or other techniques)
Who:	UK & International artists (any age)
Fees:	UK: £55, Eurozone: €55+VAT, USA: $65 (one time registration fee, add as many works to your personal file as you please. See all countries fees here). Group 1 closes on 31st March, Group 2: 30th June, Group 3: 30th September. For each group, candidates will have until 30th September to complete their application.
Site:	Enter here

Paralym Art World Cup

Worldwide event for people with disabilities to express their artistic talents, win cach prizes and attend an award ceremony in Tokyo, Japan.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	1st Round: October 2023. Last closed: 30th September 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: £1,650 (300,000 Japanese Yen) 2nd Prize: £5500 (100,000 Japanese Yen)
Show:	Award ceremony in Tokyo, Japan (January 2024)
What:	Artwork that expresses your vision of ‘JOURNEY’.
Who:	UK & International artists (Applicants should possess an issued certification or equivalent document that proves their disability status)
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Bada Art Prize

From the British Antique Dealers’ Association the BADA Art Prize returns for its third year, seeking to promote “the antiques of tomorrow”.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Successful applicants will be notified by email no later than 27th October 2023. Last closed: 1st October 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £1,000 (£1,000 grant to an emerging contemporary artist whose work exemplifies the enduring ingenuity and quality illustrated by BADA members’ objects)
Show:	BADA Week reception in London (17th Nov 2023)
What:	All medium and styles are welcomed (submissions must be original works produced within the last 2 years.)
Who:	Applicants must be currently enrolled in or have completed a post-secondary education at a UK institution.
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

RSA Blackadder Houston Mid-Career Painting Award

Opportunity from the Royal Scottish Academy for Scottish born/based painters at least 15 years out of art school or 15 years substantive practice.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	The award winner will be announced by end of November 2023. Last closed: 1st October 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £20,000 (to enable a committed painter to devote themselves exclusively to painting for a period of time of up to 26 weeks, which they would otherwise not be able to do, due to other commitments such as employment or caring responsibilities)
What:	The entrant’s practice must be predominantly based in painting, this can be in any medium or subject.
Who:	Entrants must be be born or currently living in Scotland (and have been for at least 3 years) and mid-career painters at least 15 years out of art school or can demonstrate at least 15 years of substantive practice.
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

RSA Blackadder Houston Mid-Career Travel Award

New travel award from the Royal Scottish Academy for Scottish born/based painters at least 15 years out of art school or 15 years substantive practice.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	The award winner will be announced by end of November 2023. Last closed: 1st October 2023.
Prize:	Award: £5,000 (for research, development & production of new work through period of international travel)
What:	The entrant’s practice must be predominantly based in painting, this can be in any medium or subject.
Who:	Entrants must be be born or currently living in Scotland (and have been for at least 3 years) and mid-career painters at least 15 years out of art school or can demonstrate at least 15 years of substantive practice.
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

The Manifest Prize

Annual prize launched in 2010 from the Cincinnati based Manifest Creative Research Gallery and Drawing Center with cash award of $5000 and four-week solo exhibit.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection notification: 6th November 2023 (Notifications sent by email to all entrants by the end of day). Last closed: 1st October 2023.
Prize:	Manifest Prize: $5,000 Runners-Up Prizes: $250 (four artists will each receive $250)
Show:	Manifest Gallery, Cincinnati (14 Dec 2023 – 12 Jan 2024)
What:	The Prize is open to works of ANY media, ANY genre/style, ANY size. The jury and judging process has no stylistic or media-based preference or bias.
Who:	UK & International artists
Past:	Last year’s prize winners.
Fees:	Entry by 1st September: $40 for up to 5 entries. Entry by 1st October: $60 for up to 5 entries.
Site:	Enter here

Unlimited UK and International Open Awards

14 awards to disabled artists in England, Scotland & Wales with a grand total of £600,000 to commission artists on a national and international level.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlisted artists announced: 28th November 2023. Last closed: 2nd October 2023.
Prize:	Awards Total: £600,000 (For artists based in England: two awards of £20,000, two of £50,000, and two of £80,000. For artists based in Scotland: one award of £15,000 and one of £45,000. For artists based in Wales: one award of £47,500. UK & International colboarations: five awards of up to £50,000)
What:	Your work can fall into any of the following artforms: drama, dance, music, visual arts, literature, and/or combined arts. International awards includes above artforms as well as fashion, architecture, and film.
Who:	The UK Open Awards are open to: professional disabled artists and/or a disabled-led companies based in England, Scotland, or Wales, aged 18+, not in full-time education. The same applies to the International Open Awards while the work must facilitate a meaningful collaboration with a disabled artist/collective based in one of the Official Development Assistance (ODA) countries (listed here).
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

The BigCi Environmental Awards

Australian & International artists from various fields are invited to submit entries for a chance to win $4,000 and 4 week residency by the Blue Mountains.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Announcement of the winners: 1st November 2023. Last closed: 2nd October 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: $4,000 & Residency (2 winners will each receive a 4 week residency and $4,000 spending money)
What:	“Your submission must show how you will respond to the environmental issues of the day using your chosen medium. Relevance to the location on the edge of the Wollemi National Park in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains is essential. The Greater Blue Mountains is an area of stunning scenic beauty, with its own unique flora, fauna and geomorphology. BigCi is located only 1.5 hours drive from Sydney, Australia’s biggest city, yet it is in a dramatically different world. We are looking for inspirational projects that will be executed within the residency time frame. You can choose to deal with relevant environmental or natural science issues, explore ideas and concepts related to nature, or use this opportunity to creatively respond to the unique wilderness on our doorstep and the current challenges it faces. The focus of the Award is on the environment. This is open to a wide range of interpretations, allowing you to work on aspects that are of most interest to you and fit best with your artistic practice.”
Who:	International and Australian artists from various fields – visual art, installation, multimedia, performance, literature, music, photography, film making, curating.
Past:	2022 Award Winners
Fees:	$35 entry fee.
Site:	Enter here

Toolip Art Contest

The second outing of the international art competition with over €10,000 of prizes and a group exhibition at the Mrs Toolip Art Gallery in Barcelona.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Announcement of the 30 finalists: 12th October. Last closed: 3rd October 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: €6,000 2nd Prize: €3,000 3rd Prize: €1,500
Show:	Mrs. Toolip Art Gallery, Barcelona (16 Nov – 16 Dec 2023)
What:	All kinds of artworks are allowed in the art contest such as drawings, paintings, sculptures, photographs, and NFTs, except A.I art.
Who:	UK & International artists
Past:	2022 Award Winners
Fees:	1 artwork: €50, 2 artworks: €90, 3 artworks: €120
Site:	Enter here

The John Ruskin Prize

Organised by the fine people at The Big Draw and Guild of St. George this biennale prize aims to uphold the beliefs of the critic John Ruskin.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	The selection panel will shortlist up to 40 artists and will be announced by email to all entrants (date TBA). Last closed: 5th October 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: 3,000 Second Prize: £2,000 Alan Davidson Prize: £1,000 (for artists, designers and makers aged under 26) International Prize: £1,000 (for artists outside of the UK working in any medium, submissions must be digital in format as work will be viewed, judged and exhibited digitally) Kate Mawson Prize for Innovation: £1,000 (celebrating innovation and creativity for all artists, designers and makers working in any materials)
Show:	Trinity Buoy Wharf, London (1-18 Feb 2024)
What:	All Media. Theme: “Seeing the Unseen, Hearing the Unspoken“.
Who:	UK & International artists (over 18)
Past:	The 5th Ruskin Prize was held in 2019, winners and exhibition info here
Fees:	Standard entry: 1 artwork: £25; 2 artworks: £40; 3 artworks: £50, Under 26 entry: 1 artwork: £20; 2 artworks: £25; 3 artworks: £38 (International digital entry: 1 artwork; £15: 2 artworks: £20; 3 artworks: £30)
Site:	Enter here

Royal Institute of Oil Painters Annual Exhibition

British art society founded in 1882 to promote and exhibit work exclusively in oil paint. This year sees a prize fund of over £7,000.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Check this link from 12 noon on 20th October to see if your work has been selected. Last closed: 6th October 2023.
Prize:	Phyllis Roberts Award: £2,000 (for artist 30 or under) Alan Gourley Memorial Award: £1,000 (for a painting of outstanding merit) W&N Young Artist Award 1st Prize: £1,000 (for artist 30 or under) ROI Themed Painting Prize: £500 (for standout painting within the 2023 theme ‘Urban Life’) W&N Young Artist Award 2nd Prize: £600 (for artist 30 or under) W&N Young Artist Award 3rd Prize: £400 (for artist 30 or under) Stanley Grimm Prizes: £700 (£400 & £300 prizes from visitor votes) Tony Merrick Memorial Prize: £250 ROI Emerging Artist Prize: £250 (for artist 30 or under) Small Painting Prize: £250 (30.5cm max inc. frame) W&N Non-member Award: £150 (of art materials)
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (29 Nov – 16 Dec 2023)
What:	2023 Theme: ‘Urban Life’. Oils. Acrylic and water-soluble oil paint is acceptable if framed as an oil.
Who:	UK & international artists (over 18)
Past:	2022 Award Winners
Fees:	£20 per work (max 6, £14 if under 35)
Site:	Enter here

Discerning Eye Drawing Bursary

Five artists will be shortlisted for the Bursary and an exhibition of their selected work will be shown at the Mall Galleries, London.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	The winner will be announced on 16 November 2023. Last closed: 10th October 2023.
Prize:	Drawing Bursary: £1,500 4 Runner’s Up Prizes: £150
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (16-26 Nov 2023)
What:	Drawing not exceeding 50cm square or 20 square inches including the frame.
Who:	UK residents only
Fees:	£5 per artist
Site:	Enter here

Jameel Prize 7

The seventh edition of the V&A’s triennial award is devoted to moving image and new media work, inspired by Islamic art, culture, history, or ideas.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Finalists will be announced in November 2023. Last closed: 15th October 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: €25,000
Show:	Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Rd, London (Winter 2024)
What:	Jameel Prize 7 has a thematic focus on moving image and new media work. Moving image encompasses film, video, and installation, while new media describes contemporary practices that engage with digital technologies – both established and emerging – including animation, virtual reality, 3D printing and the internet. Alongside artists and designers working in these areas, we invite applications from those using digital media to advance and reinvent analogue and hand-made art and design practices. How is traditional craft evolving in response to new technologies? In what ways is design adapting to innovation in the digital realm? How does innovation intersect contemporary art? Do not propose new work for Jameel Prize 7. Your work must already exist at the time of application, and have been made in the last five years (2018 or later).
Who:	UK & International artists
Past:	jameel Prize 6 Winner – Ajlan Gharem
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

New Emergence Art Prize

The fifth outing from the artist led platform intended to help showcase and support under represented artists from around the world.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist announcement: 23rd October 2023. Last closed: 16th October 2023.
Prize:	1st Prize: £1,000 (and permanent website feature in online gallery)
What:	Accepted media include but are not limited to: paintings, drawings, original prints, photography, sculptures, digitally produced artworks, mixed media constructions, video, sound, digital applications and installations.
Who:	UK and international artists (over 18)
Past:	Previous winners and shortlisted artists
Fees:	1 work: £12, 2 works: £20, 3 works: £25 (fees go towards prize money and admin costs)
Site:	Enter here

British Art Prize 2023

UK art competition from the people that bring you Artists & Illustrators with a prize fund value of over £10,000 and London exhibition.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist of 50 artists will be announced online on 24 November 2023. Dealine extended from 28th September. Last closed: 16th October 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £3,000 (A £2,500 cash prize from Adobe & £500 Royal Talens gift voucher, plus feature in Artists & Illustrators and work shown at gallery@oxo, London) Second Prize: £1,500 (£1,000 cash prize from Adobe & £500 Derwent gift voucher, magazine feature & show) Third Prize: £500 (£500 Pegasus Art Supplies gift voucher, magazine feature & show) People’s Choice Award: £1,000 (£1,000 Atlantis Art Materials vouche, magazine feature & show) Shortlisted Artists: £50 (£50 art materials voucher from Atlantis for each of the 50 short-listed artists)
Show:	Gallery@Oxo, London (January 2024)
What:	Medium: painting. No criteria concerning size, materials, or style.
Who:	Open to anyone
Past:	View the 2022 winners.
Fees:	£17 for 1st artwork (£14 per additional artwork, free for The British Art Club members)
Site:	Enter here

Dare Art Prize

Challenging artists and scientists to collaborate on new approaches to the creative process, awarded by the University of Leeds and Opera North.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Last closed: 16th October 2023
Prize:	First Prize: £15,000(£10,000 bursary, £5,000 for resources)
Residency:	The Tetley, Leeds (September 2021)
What:	Any artform or channel – a performance, a poem, an interactive website or a song cycle for example.
Who:	UK based artists
Fees:	No entry fee (submit 500 word proposal)
Site:	Enter here

Dorset Art Prize

Bournemouth & Poole College invite Dorset based artists in 3 age categories to submit their artworks for a chance to win over £5,000 of prizes.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Winners notified at date TBA. Last closed: 22nd October 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £1,000 (for age categories 16-18 & adult, age category 11-16: £500) 2nd Prize: £750 (16-18 & adult, 11-16: £250) 3rd Prize: £500 (16-18 & adult, 11-16: £100)
Show:	Giant Gallery, Bournemouth (24th November 2023)
What:	The theme of the Dorset Art Prize this year is: Environment. All participants should respond to this theme, how they respond and in what genre of creativity is open. All forms of visual arts permitted including: Photography, Animation, Digital Fine Art, Graphic Art, Illustration and any other visual art specialism.
Who:	Dorset based artists only. Age group categories: 11-16, 16-18 and 18+ open.
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Visit Website

Zealous Amplify: Environment

Free to enter UK wide competition designed to celebrate the most impactful works related to environmental themes.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Raising money for Arts Catalyst, a visual arts organisation and charity based in Sheffield, UK, who are enabling people in South Yorkshire and beyond to engage in creative experiences that increase ecological awareness, encourage positive social action and open up new ways of learning about the world around us. Last closed: 23rd October 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £1,000 Second Prize: £250 Third Prize: £150 Public Vote: £100 (Amazon voucher)
Show:	Online exhibition, opens 10th Oct 2022
Jury:	Judges include Laura Clarke – Artistic Director of Arts Catalyst, Polly Bates – Founder of ‘Artists Responding To…’, Clare Dudeney – Associate for Sustainability First, Sinead McCoy – Coastal Communities Manager for Clean Coasts, Sarah Durcan – Executive Director of Science Gallery London.
What:	Work focusing on the environment. Zealous are less concerned with the medium of the work submitted and more interested in its impact and believe a piece of art, theatre, poetry, sculpture, game, and all types of mediums can all sit side-by-side in making positive change.
Who:	UK residents only
Fees:	No entry fee (option to donate)
Site:	Enter here

Loewe Foundation Craft Prize 2024

Free to enter international award celebrating excellence in craftmanship with a 50,000 Euro first prize and Paris group show in Spring 2024.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist announced by end of January 2024. Last closed: 25th October 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: €50,000 Special Mentions: €5,000 (number to be determined)
Show:	New York Exhibition (Spring 2023)
What:	Make sure the work: demonstrates artistic intent in addition to technical proficiency is an original piece, handmade or partly handmade, is recently created (in the last five years), and one-of-a-kind, and has not won any prizes previously, is innovative, in the sense that it updates tradition, falls within an area of the applied arts, such as ceramics, bookbinding, enamelwork, jewellery, lacquer, metal, furniture, leather, textiles, glass, paper, wood, etc.
Who:	UK and international artists (age 18 and over)
Past:	2023 Winner & Finalists
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

This Is Diabetes Photo & Art Competition

Seeks submissions of photos and artwork that illustrate the importance of access to diabetes care. Win the opportunity to donate up to €6,000.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Winners announced: 14th November 2023. Last closed: 31st October 2023.
Prize:	Winner: €6,000 (donation to diabetes charity of choice) Runners-Up: €3,000 (donation of choice) Runners-Up: €1,000 (donation of choice)
What:	Art and photography that raises awareness about diabetes and the need for proper care. Submissions that capture the genuine challenges and day-to-day realities faced by diabetes patients. This is Diabetes would like to see the raw, unfiltered emotions that people with diabetes encounter. Whether it’s the burdens, day-to-day struggles, proud moments or triumphs. You can share your story about your access to care, how you manage your health each day, and moments that make you feel thankful or proud on your diabetes journey. Submissions must be in the form of graphic 2D static artwork or photographs and should be submitted electronically. Videos, animations, sculptures, and entries created using AI or generators will not be accepted.
Who:	UK & International artists (18+)
Site:	Enter here

NordArt 2024

A non-profit cultural initiative based in Büdelsdorf, Germany which organises NordArt, one of the largest contemporary art exhibitions in Europe.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	More than 200 selected artists will be notified by email or post and published on the NordArt website by early March 2024. Last closed: 31st October 2023.
Prize:	NordArt Prize: €10,000 Public Choice Awards: €1,000 (3 awards of €1,000 each)
Show:	Kunstwerk Carlshütte, Büdelsdorf, Germany (1 June – 13 October 2024)
What:	Any media.
Who:	UK & International artists
Past:	View the 2022 Prize Winners (in Danish)
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Artworks Open

Annual show from the Barbican Arts Group Trust that’s been running since 2009. Each year two different contemporary artists are chosen to select the shortlist.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Notification of selection: 7th November. Last closed: 2nd November 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £1,000 (2 x winners will each receive £1,000 cash and solo show) Other Prizes: (2 x 6 week Residencies and £250 materials prize & limited edition Giclée print with share of sales)
Show:	Artworks Project Space, London (2-10 Dec 2023)
What:	2D and 3D works (no bigger than 100cm in height, width or depth)
Who:	UK and International artists
Past:	Last year’s show catalogue
Fees:	1 work: £12, 2 works: £24, 3 works: £33, 4 works: £40. (max: 4 artworks)
Site:	Enter here

Royal Cambrian Academy of Art Open Exhibition

The Royal Cambrian Academy of Art invites submissions for its open exhibition dedicated to encouraging and portraying diversity within art.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection notification: 1st December 2023. Last closed: 21st November 2023.
Prize:	Selector’s Prize: £1,000
Show:	Royal Cambrian Academy of Art gallery, Conwy (6 Jan – 24 Feb 2024)
What:	Works may be 2D or 3D and in any medium and within the maximum size limit of 100cm x 100cm for 2D and a 100cm x 100cm footprint for 3D.
Who:	UK based artists and students (18 and over)
Past:	View the 2023 Exhibition
Fees:	£15 for first work (£25 for 2 artworks, £10 for students, max 2 artworks)
Site:	Enter here

The Pastel Society Exhibition

The Pastel Society seeks the best in contemporary dry media, combining traditional skills with creative originality for their 125th Annual Exhibition.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection notification: check here on 6th December at noon. Last closed: 24th November 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £2,000 (for the best non-member picture in the exhibition) Yoshimoto Prize: £1,000 (for an outstanding work, in any dry medium, by a non-member) President’s Prize: £500 Bob Last Prize: £400 Young Artist Award: £200 Art Critic Award: £50 Unison Young Artist Award: £500 (pastels up to £500 for the year, & 1 year mentorship) Various other awards and prizes.
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (24 Jan – 10 Feb 2024)
What:	Pastels, oil pastels, charcoal, pencil, conte, sanguine, or any dry media. Work must be for sale, min price: £400.
Who:	UK and international artists (18+)
Past:	View the 2022 Exhibition
Fees:	£20 per work, £14 if under 35 (max 6 artworks)
Site:	Enter here

Visual Art Open

The ninth year of the not-for-profit event open to both amateur and professional artists based in the UK and internationally.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Longlisted Artists Announced – July 2024. Last closed: 14th December 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: £2,000 (plus London solo show, annual mentorship programme, VAA Premium Annual Membership, Momentum Programme, Art Supplies) Category Winners: £250 (Painting/Mixed Media/Printmaking, Illustration/Drawing, Sculpture, Photography/Digital Art, Young Artist 16-24)
Show:	London exhibition November 2024
What:	Drawing, printing, painting, photography, digital art, sculpture and video
Who:	UK & International artists (over 18)
Past:	View all 2023 winners
Fees:	£20 for 1 artwork (+£10 per additional artwork, 5 works maximum, £5 discount for under 24s)
Site:	Enter here

Future Makers – Lead Artist Open Call

Open call for a visionary Lead Artist to craft an outdoor public artwork using recycled plastic, emphasising public engagement and reshaping perceptions.

Close:	TBAcurrently closed
News:	Notification of Candidates: Thursday, 21st December. Last closed: 15th December 2023.
Prize:	£10,000 (for approximately 30 days of work, covering expertise and creative effort. Reasonable travel, accommodation, and contingency expenses are available.)
Show:	Future Makers building, Nottingham (begin work January 2024)
What:	Submit up to 500 words about what attracted you to this project, your initial concepts and proposal, including 2-3 sketches. The structure, such as a pavilion, shelter or sculptural form will repurpose 1 tonne of locally sourced waste plastic, showcasing its viability and inspiring sustainable practices. The theme is open, inviting artists, designers, and makers to contribute innovative ideas for this work that will be in situ for at least 12 months at the Future Makers site.
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

G. & A. Mamidakis Foundation Art Prize

3 selected artists will each receive an award of €7,000 plus €5,000 construction fee to create wall mounted work for Minos Palace in Crete.

Close:	TBAcurrently closed
News:	Shortlist: TBA. Last closed: 15th December 2023.
Prize:	3 Awards of: €7,000 (Each of the three selected proposals will be awarded 7,000 euros, and an additional 5,000 euros will be made available to each artist for the construction of the work. Shipping costs, return ticket to Crete and accommodation and meals at Minos Palace will also be covered.)
Show:	Minos Palace, Agios Nikolaos, Crete (Summer 2024)
What:	Open call for site specific, wall-mounted works created to be part of a specific, configured environment; works which narrate an internal path/route, and which can be reference points-landmarks within their exhibition space. Visual artists of the following fields: painting, sculpture, sound and sculptural installation, mixed media, printmaking, digital art, photographic print, ink print, video, installation, and drawing. Particular emphasis is placed on the theme of care.
Who:	UK & International artists
Past:	Previous winners
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

FluxusMuseum Prize for Experimental Video

Selected proposals will be commissioned and featured in the first video exhibition at FluxusMuseum on the Cycladic island of Paros, Greece.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Prizes will be awarded by 1st August 2024. Last closed: 15th December 2023.
Prize:	First Prize: €10,000 Second Prize x 2: €5,000 (2 artists will each receive €5,000) Selected works: €600 (commission fee for selected works)
Show:	FluxusMuseum, Paros, Greece (July – August 2024)
What:	Films meeting the prize’s requirements must be up to 25 minutes in length with no minimum length; be experimental in the spirit of the Fluxus group; and can be with or without audio.
Who:	UK & International artists of any age
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

Derwent Art Prize

An annual prize totalling £13,000 showcasing the best 2D & 3D artworks created in pencil or coloured pencil, water soluble, pastel, graphite or charcoal.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selected artists will be notified by 22 January 2024. Last closed: 4th January 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: £4,000 (plus up to £600 of Derwent products) Second Prize: £2,000 Young Artist First Prize: £4,000 (25 years and under) Young Artist Second Prize: £2,000 People’s Choice Award: £500 New Artist Award: £500
Show:	Gallery@Oxo, London (4-14 April 2024)
What:	2D and 3D work created in pencil (including water-soluble, pastel, graphite, charcoal or coloured pencils). Mixed media works are eligible but the main component must be pencil or one of the media previously listed. Work must not exceed 182cm.
Who:	UK & International artists (over 18)
Past:	The previous edition received a record 6,100 artworks from 43 countries! View the 2022 Prize Winners
Fees:	£15 for first work (£5 for each additional entry, maximum 6. Artists under 25 pay £5 per work)
Site:	Enter here

Society of Graphic Fine Art

103rd Annual Open Exhibition in London from the Society of Graphic Fine Art with an emphasis on excellence in drawing and draughtsmanship.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection Notification: 16 February 2024. Last closed: 5th January 2024.
Prize:	Prize Fund: £2,000+ (prizes and amounts to be confirmed)
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (11-16 Mar 2024)
What:	Drawings in any medium, monochrome or colour – pencil, coloured pens and pencils, pen and ink, pastels and oil pastels, charcoal, conté, etc. Any work based on photographs must have the photographer’s permission.
Who:	UK & International artists (over 18)
Past:	2023 finalists: Members, Non-Members.
Fees:	Free for members, non-members: £20 per artwork, up to 5 artworks
Site:	Enter here

NAE Open 2024

An exhibition and professional development opportunity for UK based artists from the Global Ethnic Majority and all artists from Nottinghamshire.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Prizes below will be announced on 27 July 2024 during the NAE Open 2024 Awards Ceremony. Last closed: 6th January 2024.
Prize:	Exhibition Prize: £10,000 (Awarded to an artist from the Global Ethnic Majority and including a commissioning grant of up to £10,000, mentoring support with a future exhibition or performance held NAE in 2025/2026.) NAE Residency Prize: £1,200 (Awarded to an artist from the Global Ethnic Majority – includes a cash award of £1,200, residency at NAE inclusive of financial support, provision of an artist’s studio space, and mentoring support, to be held in 2025/2026).) Primary Residency Prize: £1,000 (2 week residency awarded to an artist from the Global Ethnic Majority living anywhere in the UK. Fee of £1,000, access to a project space at Primary in 2024. Mentoring support, conversation with Primary’s artist community and the opportunity to present work to an audience.) QUAD/FORMAT Photography Prize: (2 week residency for a lens-based media artist in QUAD’s dedicated Artist Studio space with mentoring and advice sessions with the QUAD/FORMAT curatorial team, and three monthly mentoring sessions.)
Show:	New Art Exchange, Nottingham (25 May – 13 September 2024)
What:	Live Art, Video and Moving Image, Sound(only) Artwork, Installation Art, Two Dimensional and Sculptural Artwork.
Who:	UK based artists who either identify as being from the Global Ethnic Majority* (living anywhere in the UK), or, artists who live in Nottinghamshire (of any ethnicity). NAE defines Global Ethnic Majority as a collective term that refers to people who are Black, Asian, Brown, dual heritage, indigenous to the global south, and or have been racialised as ethnic minorities. (over 18)*
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

Royal Watercolour Society Open

Formerly known as the Contemporary Watercolour Competition, the RWS Open is the largest open-submission water-media exhibition in the world.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Results announced via email: 31st January 2024. Last closed: 8th January 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: £1,000 RWS Award: £250 New Graduate Award: £250
Show:	Bankside Gallery, London (8-24 March 2024)
What:	Works made in all water-based media including (but not limited to) watercolour, acrylic, ink, gouache, and mixed media pieces featuring non-water-based materials as long as a water-based-media is included.
Who:	UK & International artists (age 18 and over)
Past:	Selected works from 2023 exhibition
Fees:	£15 per work, discounts for 3-6, £5 for students, free for members (max 6)
Site:	Enter here

Royal Society of British Artists

Invites painters, sculptors and printmakers to submit work for the RBA’s Annual Exhibition with a £10,000 grand prize and £10,000 worth of other prizes.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Selection notification: 19th January, 12 noon. Last closed: 10th January 2024.
Prize:	Huaicun Zhang Award: £10,000 (prize donated by Huaicun Zhang Hon RBA for her choice of an outstanding work in the exhibition) Whistler Award: £3,000 de Laszlo Foundation Prize: £2,000 (awarded to an artist aged 35 or under for the best work from life) Surgeon’s Prize: £500 John Lynn Young Artist Prize: £500 Winsor & Newton Painting Award: £500 (art materials value) Michael Harding Award: £500 (art materials value) Peter Kelly Prize: £300 Ronald Morgan Memorial Award: £250 Stuart Southall Print Prize: £250 Hahnemuhle Fine Art UK Award: £250 (artist paper value) Nathan David Award for Sculpture: £150 Various other awards and prizes.
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (29 Feb – 9 Mar 2024)
What:	Acceptable media: Painting, sculpture, drawing and original prints.
Who:	UK and international artists (18+)
Past:	View the 2023 RBA Bicentennial Exhibition.
Fees:	£20 per work, £14 if under 35 (max 6 artworks, includes £5 entry fee to exhibition)
Site:	Enter here

RBA Rome Scholarship & RISING STARS Exhibition

Opportunity for a UK based artist aged 18-35 to win £5,000 and stay for a month at ‘Sala Uno’, a prestigious gallery in the centre of Rome.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	40 semi-finalists for the RBA Rome Scholarship will be selected for the Rising Stars exhibition. Last closed: 10th January 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: £5,000 (£5,000 prize money plus 4 weeks accommodation at Sala Uno gallery and arts centre in Rome. Staying in a self-contained apartment within an extensive walled garden in the grounds of the gallery. Studio space within the gallery. Two meals per day from a nearby restaurant. Return flights to Rome.) 2 x Runners-Up Prizes: £1,000
Show:	Rising Stars exhibition at Royal Over-Seas League, Mayfair, London (26 April – 7 July 2024)
What:	The applicant’s work needs to be figurative. The work may be painting, drawing, printmaking or sculpture.
Who:	Artists aged 18-35 who live, work or study in the UK.
Past:	2023 RBA Rising Stars Exhibition.
Fees:	£10 (administration fee)
Site:	Enter here

The Fine Art Textiles Award

FATA is an international juried exhibition open to all amateur and practising artists using textiles as their medium, and offering a £5,000 first prize.

Close:	TBA opens early 2025
News:	Shortlisted announced by email by end of June. Last closed: 22nd May 2023.
Prize:	Overall Winner: £5,000 Innovative Use of Textiles: £500 (a piece of work that clearly demonstrates a particularly complex and/or powerful approach of the use of textiles)
Show:	Festival of Quilts, NEC Birmingham (3 – 6 August 2023)
What:	Work that meets the following criteria: Would be considered as fine art and worthy of premium gallery space. Transcends its craft or making process, standing alone as visual art. Is clearly rooted in and reflecting of the inspiration, source, concept or idea of the artist, with fully resolved composition. Is rooted within the medium of textile, meaning that cloth and thread are used as the pivotal materials/media. Both 2D and 3D works are welcome, with the exception of garments unless said garments present as fine art. All disciplines, processes and media are therefore welcome, as long as the key/pivotal materials are clearly rooted in textiles. Without providing an exhaustive list, in terms of process this might include hand and/or machine stitch, weaving, collage/piecing, wrapping or binding, thread ‘drawing’, surface design, knitting and crochet. In terms of media, other elements can be incorporated such as dyes, discharge media, paint, paper, resin, wax and so forth.
Who:	UK & International artists
Past:	Visitor’s Choice Winner 2022
Fees:	Administrative fee of £38.00 per entry
Site:	Enter here

RSA Residencies for Scotland

Artist-led scheme providing funds of up to £5,000 for valuable research and residency opportunities for Scottish born/based artists.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Successful applications will be announced by the end of May 2024. Last closed: 14th January 2024.
Prize:	Awards up to: £5,000 (for artists to undertake a residency at venues situated across Scotland)
What:	Open to visual artists at all stages of their careers, the emphasis is on enabling a period of research, development and production, as well as on the acquisition and exchange of new skills and experiences. Artists can apply for funds of up to £5,000 and are responsible for managing their own residency, in discussion with the partner venue.
Who:	Artists must be currently living and working in Scotland, and have been for at least the last 3 years consecutively, OR be Scottish by birth. Not open to those in full time education.
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

New Light Prize Exhibition

A biennial competition open to artists born, based or who have studied in the North of England: Cumbria, Durham, Lancashire, Northumberland and Yorkshire.

Close:	TBAcurrently closed
News:	Jun/Jul 2023 Shortlisted artists announced. Last closed: 30th April 2023.
Prize:	Valeria Sykes Prize: £10,000 Patron’s Choice Award: £2,500 Sculpture Prize: £1,000
Show:	The Williamson Art Gallery, Birkenhead(29 Sep – 22 Dec 2023)Bankside Gallery, London (27 Feb – 3 Mar 2024)Rheged Gallery, Penrith (14 Mar – 2 Jun 2024), The Biscuit Factory, Newcastle (21 Jun – early Sep 2024), The Mercer Art Gallery, Harrogate (12 Sep – 21 Dec 2024)
What:	Static works, capable of being wall-hung without requiring any power source. (Photography is currently excluded.)
Who:	Artists, over 18, born in the North of England or are currently living in the North of England or studied at degree or postgraduate level (in an arts-based subject) in the North of England. (the North of England is defined as being the historic counties of Cumbria, Durham, Lancashire, Northumberland and Yorkshire.)
Fees:	£20 for the first image, £40 for two, £10 for each subsequent image (no maximum number of entries, max 3 shortlisted)
Site:	Enter here

Herbert Smith Freehills Portrait Award

A welcome return for the previously named BP Portrait Award to the National Portrait Gallery showcasing the best in contemporary portrait painting.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	All entrants will be notified if their work has been selected for the second round of judging by 2nd February 2024. Last closed: 16th January 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: £35,000 Second Prize: £12,000 Third Prize: £10,000 Young Artist Award: £9,000 (age 30 and under)
Show:	National Portrait Gallery, London (11 July – 27 October 2024)
What:	The work entered must be predominantly painted in oil, tempera or acrylic and must be on a stretcher or board, preferably framed and unglazed. No watercolours, works on paper or pastels will be considered. The work entered should be a painting based on a sitting or study from life and the human figure must predominate. Self-portraits and group portraits are permitted. Eligible works must have been completed from 1 January 2020 – 16 January 2024.
Who:	UK & International artists (over 18)
Past:	Last held as the BP Portrait Award in 2020 – View Prize Winners
Fees:	£35 (1 work maximum)
Site:	Enter here

RBSA Print Prize 2024

Celebrating and supporting printmakers with an open exhibition of all types of original prints at the RBSA Gallery in Birmingham.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Work to be delivered 20-24 February. Last closed: 22nd January 2024.
Prize:	1st Prize: £1,000 2nd Prize: £500 3rd Prize: £250 Student Prize: £250 Printmaking Today Prize: (Editorial feature in the magazine)
Show:	RBSA Gallery, Birmingham (29 Feb – 6 Apr 2024)
What:	All types of original prints
Who:	UK and international artists
Fees:	1 work: £19, 2 works: £32, 3 works: £40, 4 works: £48 (Free for Next Wave Associates, 50% discount for artists under 35)
Site:	Enter here

Royal Society Of Portrait Painters Award

Annual exhibition at the Mall Galleries in Central London will bring together over 200 portraits competing for a share of the £43,000 prize fund.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Notification of pre-selection: 12 noon, 7th February. Last closed: 26th January 2024
Prize:	William Lock Prize: £20,000 (most timeless portrait with a real feeling for paint and its aesthetic potential) Ondaatje Prize: £10,000 (most distinguished portrait in exhibition) The de Laszlo Foundation Award: £3000 (best portrait by artist 35 and under) Prince of Wales Award: £2000 (for portrait drawing) RP Prize: £2000 (for best small portrait 15″ x 12″ max) Burke’s Peerage Foundation Award: £2000 (classically inspired portraiture) Contemporary Arts Trust Award: £1000 (most deserving artist) Smallwood Architects Prize: £1000 (architectural or interior features play important part)
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (9-18 May 2024)
What:	Paintings, drawings and original prints – including digital/iPad prints. No sculpture or photography.
Who:	UK & International artists (over 18)
Past:	View the 2023 online exhibition and 2023 prize winners
Fees:	£20 per work, £14 if under 35 (includes admission to the exhibition, normally £5)
Site:	Enter here

The Waverton Art Prize

Founded in 2022 as a platform for emerging talent, under the age of 40, to invest time and resources into developing their vocation.

Close:	currently closed
News:	Shortlist selected February 2024. Last closed: 31st January 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: £10,000 (cash prize will be awarded to an overall winner selected by a panel of four judges) Waverton Acquisition Award: (Waverton will purchase one piece of art from the full catalogue of entries)
Show:	The Gallery Room, Boisdale of Canary Wharf, London (March 2024)
What:	All 2D media, Drawing, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Collage, Textiles, Collage, Digital Print. Submitted works must not exceed 50x40cm, inclusive of frame.
Who:	UK based artists under the age of 40.
Past:	View the 2022 prize winner
Fees:	£12 entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Sky Portrait Artist of the Year

If you’re game for taking part in the eleventh portrait painting series on Sky Arts you could be in front of the cameras at Battersea Arts Centre this Spring.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Filming in March-April 2024 at Battersea Arts Centre. Last closed: 2nd February 2024.
Prize:	First Prize Commission: £10,000 (plus £500 art materials from Cass Art)
What:	Submit a self portrait produced within the last five years and up to two further works. Any media excluding photography, video, sculpture and digital media.
Who:	UK Residents age 16 and over (resident in the UK, Gibraltar, Falkland Islands, Isle of Man, Channel Islands and Republic of Ireland)
Past:	Interviews by Cass Art with previous series winners
Fees:	No Entry Fee
Site:	Enter here

Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours

One of the longest standing UK art prizes at over 200 years old! Celebrates the best in contemporary watercolour and watermedia painting.

Close:	TBAcurrently closed
News:	Log in to the OESS from 12 noon on 16th February to see if your work has been selected. Last closed: 2nd February 2024.
Prize:	Winsor & Newton Award: £3,000 Winsor & Newton Product Prize: £1,000 (worth of art materials) Leathersellers’ Prize: £1,000 (for artists aged 18 to 30) President’s Choice Award: £750 James Fletcher-Watson RI Award:: £500 (for the best use of watercolour in the exhibition) Baohong Artists’ Watercolour Paper Prizes: £250 (2 x £250 prizes) Richard Plincke RI Prize for Colour: £250 (for creative use of colour) Chaoshan Watercolour Award: £250 (for the best classically inspired watercolour) Cass Art Prize: £200 (for the most innovative use of colour)
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (28 Mar – 13 Apr 2024)
What:	Watercolour or water-soluble mediums including watercolour, acrylic, ink or gouache (excluding water-soluble oils) painted on paper or paper based support.
Who:	UK & International artists (over 18)
Past:	View the 2023 online exhibition and prize winners
Fees:	£20 per work, £14 if under 36 (max 6 artworks)
Site:	Enter here

The Gallery Open Call

Create a work of 2D art for outdoor presentation in response to the theme ‘What does it really mean to be a woman?’. 10 artists will receive a fee of £2,000 each.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist and commissioned artists confirmed: early March 2024. Last closed: 4th February 2024.
Prize:	Commission: £2,000 (10 artists or collectives will win £2,000 each)
Show:	Exhibition in public spaces across the UK (exhibition launch in May 2024)
What:	The Gallery Season 4 invites artists to make work in response to the theme: A REAL WOMAN. “What does it really mean to be a woman? How do women see themselves – in relation to each other and to the rest of the world? How does a woman decide the kind of woman she is? Who’s looking? Who’s judging? What insight might the experience of transgender women provide? We’re keen to hear from any artist who identifies in any way, if they feel they have artistic insight to share.”
Who:	UK & International artists (18 and over. For artists based outside of the UK, a travel stipend of £200 towards any/all travel expenses, including visa fees and one night’s accommodation is included.)
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

RA Summer Exhibition 2024 – Sold out!

The largest open-submission art exhibition in the world. Limited to 16,500 total entries (yep, they’ve all filled up!) with a prize fund of over £90,000.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Up to 4,000 entries to be shortlisted. Digital Judging results: 20th March. Final results: 31st May. Last closed: 13th February 2024.
Prize:	(2024 prizes to be announced, 2023 prizes below) Charles Wollaston Award: £25,000 Thomas Burberry Prize for Print: £20,000 AXA Art Prize: £10,000 Jack Goldhill Award for Sculpture: £10,000 British Institution Awards for Students: £5,000 + £3,000 Hugh Casson Drawing Prize: £5,000 CDUK award for Architecture: £5,000 Sunny Dupree Family Award for a Woman Artist: £4,000 The Arts Club Award: £2,500
Show:	Royal Academy, London (18 June – 18 August 2024)
What:	Any media. This year, British sculptor Ann Christopher RA takes the reins as exhibition co-ordinator on the following themes: “I plan to explore the idea of making space, whether giving space or taking space. This can be interpreted in various ways: to make space can mean openness – making space for something or someone, also making space between things.”
Who:	UK & International artists (over 18)
Past:	2023 exhibition and prize winners list
Fees:	£40 per entry (2 entries maximum)
Site:	Enter here

EMBracing the Ocean

The European Marine Board is looking for two artists for their remote residency programme to co-create artwork in collaboration with ocean scientists.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	The awardees will begin their residency in April 204. Last closed: 18th February 2024.
Prize:	Award: €10,000 (Two awardees will each be awarded a grant of €10,000 to co-create artwork in collaboration with Ocean scientists to expand societies’ understanding of the Ocean’s value and inspire wide reaching societal change for Ocean sustainability.)
What:	Visual arts e.g. drawing, painting, filmmaking, photography, sculpting, digital arts, installation. Applicants should submit a provisional monthly timeline for their work as part of their application including initial ideas of the activities they expect to carry out.
Who:	UK and International artists
Past:	Previous Artists-in-Residence
Fees:	No Entry Fee (one entry per person)
Site:	Enter here

BBA Artist Prize 2024

Opportunity for artists worldwide to exhibit in the fantastic city of Berlin during one of the biggest events for contemporary art in Germany.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Longlist announced 2-6 weeks after deadline. Last closed: 19th February 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: €1,000 (Solo show at BBA Gallery in 2025) Second Prize: €700 (Artsy profile + online solo show) Third Prize: €500 (Artsy profile + online solo show) Audience Award: €500 (Artsy profile + online solo show)
Show:	Kühlhaus Berlin (20+ artists selected for group show in May 2024)
What:	Any medium including sculpture and original prints. “Visual excellence, storytelling, conceptual thinking, technical craftsmanship, subject depth, and understanding – these are just a few aspects that our jury of industry professionals will take into consideration.”
Who:	UK and international artists (18+)
Past:	Last year’s winners and exhibition
Fees:	€29 entry fee (max 5 artworks)
Site:	Enter here

RSA Annual Exhibition – Open Art

Now in its 198th year, the exhibition provides a platform for contemporary painting, sculpture, film, printmaking, photography and installation.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Pre-selection announced: 2nd April from midday. Last closed: 21st February 2024.
Prize:	RSA Guthrie Award: £750 (for work by a Scottish artist under 35) RSA Maud Gemmell Hutchison Bequest: 2 x £600 (for the two best paintings or drawings of animals) RSA Open Exhibition Prize: £500 (for an artist of any age working in any medium) And several other prizes of £250 based on recent awards
Show:	Royal Scottish Academy, Edinburgh (11 May – 16 June)
What:	All media (Works must be for sale, 40% commission charge + VAT)
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	£20 per work, £10 students and under 26s (plus £10 hanging fee if selected)
Site:	Enter here

Jackson’s Art Prize

Open to artists from around the world this brilliantly run art competition showcases original, 2D works in any painting, print or drawing media.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	You will receive an email to confirm whether your entry has been successful between the 1st – 4th May. Last closed: 1st March 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: £5,000 (plus £2,000 of Jackson’s art materials) Second Prize: £3,000 (plus £1,000 art materials) Runner Up (x3): £1,000 (worth of art materials) Judge’s Choice (x6): £1,000 (worth of art materials) People’s Choice Award: £1,000 (worth of art materials) Eight Materials Awards: (art materials awards for following categories: Oil, Acrylic, Watercolour, Drawing, Pastel, Relief Print, Intaglio Print, Planographic Print)
Show:	Affordable Art Fair (8–12 May 2024), Hampstead & Bankside Gallery, by Tate Modern (30 July – 4 August 2024)
What:	Paintings, drawings, original prints.
Who:	UK & International artists (any age)
Past:	View 2023 Winner here, View 2023 People’s Choice, Amateur Artist & Student Award Winners here, View 2023 Materials & Subject Winners here.
Fees:	£6 per work (max 5)
Site:	Enter here

S+T+ARTS Prize 2024

Annual competition awarding two innovative projects at the nexus of science, technology and the arts that make an impact on economic and social innovation.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Jury meeting: April 25 – 28 2024. Last closed: 1st March 2024.
Prize:	Awards: €20,000 (two prize winners will each receive €20,000)
What:	Collaborations and projects driven by both technology and the arts. All forms of artistic works and practices with a strong link to innovation in technology, business and/or society; not restricted to a particular genre such as media art and digital art.
Who:	EU, UK and citizens of the European Research area.
Past:	Previous winners
Fees:	No Entry Fee
Site:	Enter here

Alpine Fellowship Visual Arts Prize

A group of writers, thinkers and artists who are passionate about learning and communicating with a view to better understanding themselves and others.

Close:	TBAcurrently closed
News:	2024 symposium – dates and venue to be announced. Last closed: 1st March 2024.
Prize:	1st Prize: £3,000 2nd Prize: £1,000 3rd Prize: £1,000
What:	All visual media. Theme: “Language”.
Who:	UK and International artists (over 18)
Fees:	No Entry Fee (one entry per person)
Site:	Enter here

New English Art Club Annual Exhibition

Annual exhibition celebrating figurative, observational and painterly work with a strong emphasis on drawing.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Check OESS website from 12 noon on 15th March to see if your work has been pre-selected. Last closed: 8th March 2024.
Prize:	Doreen McIntosh Prize: £3,000 (for figurative work showing rigour, visual engagement & searching attitude) Val Harris Prize: £2,000 Hermione Hammond Award: £2,000 (for drawing by an artist aged 35 or under) Ken and Dora Howard Prize: £1,000 (for a painting that best captures a sense of light) Bowyer Drawing Prize: £500 Milner Prize for an Emerging Artist £500 Winsor & Newton Award: £500 (of art materials) Peter Ashley Framing Prize: £500 (bespoke handmade picture frame will be created for the winning work, to the value of £500) Michael Harding Award: £500 (of art materials) NEC Critics Prize: £250
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (13-22 Jun 2024)
What:	Paintings, drawings, pastels, original framed prints (excluding photography and sculpture).
Who:	UK & International artists (over 18)
Past:	View 2023 exhibition artworks and prize winners.
Fees:	£20 per work, £14 if under 35 (max 6)
Site:	Enter here

Contextile 2024 – Contemporary Textile Art Biennial

Call for international textile artists for exhibition that will occupy the various cultural spaces and public areas of Guimaraes, Portugal.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Results announced on website: 17th April 2024. Last closed: 8th March 2024.
Prize:	Acquisition Prize: €7,000 ATP Acquisition Prize: €2,500 (and two Honourable Mention prizes)
Show:	Guimaraes, Portugal (50 artists selected for exhibition, 7 Sep – 15 Dec 2024)
What:	Work based around the textile element, through its concept, theme, techniques or materials. Theme: To TOUCH. More on the theme here.
Who:	UK & International artists (18+)
Fees:	Registration Fee: €10.00
Site:	Enter here

Drawing of the Year – Archisource

Architecture/environment themed drawing competition returns for its fifth year with £100,000 worth of prizes to be won across 6 award categories.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Winners announced: June 2024. Last closed: 10th March 2024.
Prize:	Drawing of the Year: £12,000 (worth of prizes) Digital Drawing Award: £8,500 (worth of prizes) Digital Media Award: £8,250 (worth of prizes) Hand Drawn Award: £8,500 (worth of prizes) Mixed Media Award: £8,250 (worth of prizes) Visualisation Award: £8,500 (worth of prizes) Affinity Licences: 250 (Affinity V2 Universal Licences for all 250 shortlisted entries)
What:	The Competition is in no way limited to the architecture profession – all arts, design and creative industries, of any experience or skill level are welcomed. Imagery can be created in any medium and style, but must relate to or convey: architecture, design or the built environment in some way.
Who:	UK & International
Past:	Past award winners
Fees:	Free to enter, up to 5 drawings per submission (all entries receive Affinity V2 Universal Licence for free! This includes Affinity Designer 2, Affinity Photo 2 and Affinity Publisher 2 for Mac, iPad & Windows PC worth £145)
Site:	Enter here

Wildlife Artist of the Year

Established in 2008 the awards have raised just under £2m to fund David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation and celebrate our planet’s wildlife.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Shortlist announced early May 2024. Last closed: 11th March 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: £10,000 (£5,000 cash prize and £5,000 conservation voucher to be donated in the winner’s name to a DSWF species of their choice) Runner Up: £2,000 Category Winners: £500 (Several £500 awards across various categories) First Time Entrants Award: £500
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (1-6 July 2024)
What:	Any medium excluding photography, film and digitally created images.
Who:	UK & International artists age 15 and over (Youth Exclusive category age 15-19)
Past:	2023 Winners Gallery
Fees:	£25 (£15 for further entries & Youth Exclusive category, no limit on entries.)
Site:	Visit Website

Society of Women Artists Open Exhibition

The 163rd Annual Open Exhibition celebrating women artists takes place at the Mall Galleries, London in June 2024.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Visit the SWA website on 29th March to see if selected. Last closed: 12th March 2024.
Prize:	Tom Urwin Fine Art Award: £2,000 Circles of Art Award: £1,000 (£500 each for two artists aged 35 or under) Karin Walker Young Artist Awards: £500 (£500 each for two artists aged 35 or under) Derwent Special Fine Art Awards: £500 (£500 of art materials for an under 35 and established artist) Helen Sinclair Sculpture Award: £500 Catto Gallery Award: £500 (and exhibiting opportunity) Cass Art Award: £250 (£250 of art materials) Jackson’s People’s Choice Award: £150 (of art materials)
Show:	Mall Galleries, London (25-29 June 2024)
What:	Painting, pastels, drawing, mixed media, sculpture, in all media; engraving, lithography, and ceramics, glass and metal not of a utilitarian nature.
Who:	UK & International artists (over 18)
Past:	2023 Award Winners
Fees:	£18 per work, £9 if under 35 (max 6)
Site:	Enter here

#SheDares Art Competition

Women for Women International invites artwork showcasing the courage and bravery of women to create a more equal and peaceful world.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	The winner will be announced on 29th March. Last closed: 18th March 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: Art Vouchers & Goodie Bag (win vouchers for art supplies and craft courses and a goodie bag including gifts from corporate partners, Women for Women International merch and art by Natalie Byrne.)
What:	“Create your piece of art on the theme of #SheDares. You can use any creative medium you’d like – paint, pencil, clay, photography or something else. Use your creative flair to honour and celebrate courageous women who have dared to defend their rights and challenge the status quo. Post a photo of your work on your Instagram (grid or stories) or Facebook, using #SheDaresArt and tagging @womenforwomenuk and @womenforwomen.”
Who:	UK & International
Fees:	No Entry Fee
Site:	Enter here

New Light Sculpture Prize

New prize open to artists born, based or who have studied in the North of England: Cumbria, Durham, Lancashire, Northumberland and Yorkshire.

Close:	TBAcurrently closed
News:	30 Apr 2024 Shortlisted artists announced. Last closed: 30th March 2024.
Prize:	Sculpture Prize: £1,000
Show:	The Biscuit Factory, Newcastle (28 Jun – 22 Sep 2024)
What:	Open to all 3D works (including ceramics) that are free-standing, either floor or plinth-based but no installation pieces at this time.
Who:	Artists, over 18, born in the North of England or are currently living in the North of England or studied at degree or postgraduate level (in an arts-based subject) in the North of England. (the North of England is defined as being the historic counties of Cumbria, Durham, Lancashire, Northumberland and Yorkshire.)
Fees:	£15 for the first image, £30 for two, £10 for each subsequent image (no maximum number of entries, max 3 shortlisted)
Site:	Enter here

Deutsche Bank Awards

£60,000 prize fund & £100,000 of business support for five entrepreneurs seeking to make positive social impact through creative enterprise.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Longlisted applicants from the first round (online application form stage) will be notified by 23rd May, 2024. Last closed: 2nd April 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: up to £20,000 (£60,000 shared among 5 winners + 12 months business support)
What:	Any media.
Who:	UK residents age 18 and over, full criteria here.
Past:	Last Year’s Winners
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

The Drawing Year

A full scholarship postgraduate-level course offering up to thirty students the opportunity to focus on drawing from observation and chance to win £15,000.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Applicants will be notified by email in May whether or not they have been shortlisted for interview. Last closed: 3rd April 2024.
Prize:	Fully Funded Scholarship (up to 30 students will receive a full scholarship and have their fees paid for the year. This includes classes, studio space, forums and lectures, exhibition opportunities, and study trips. Students have three end of year exhibitions and international residency and teaching opportunities after graduation. Students can also apply for a London Living Grant of £3,000 to help with living costs) Christie’s Award: £15,000 (one student will be awarded £15,000 towards a solo exhibition at end of year)
Show:	Royal Drawing School, 19-22 Charlotte Rd, London.
What:	Submit a digital portfolio consisting of 10 drawings and 10 ‘additional works’ of any other work you wish to include. The Drawing Year is a full scholarship postgraduate-level course offering up to thirty students the opportunity to focus on drawing from observation for one year. There are no tuition fees for The Drawing Year – all students are awarded a full scholarship and receive a free studio space. In addition to a minimum of 21 hours tutor contact time each week, students are also offered tutorials with visiting tutors. For more info you can attend Drawing Year Open Days on 20th Feb in Shoreditch or 4th March online.
Who:	UK and international artists eligible for a UK visa (Age 18+. Applicants will usually have completed a BA (Hons) degree in Fine Art or a related subject, but this is not essential)
Past:	Last year’s winner of the Christie’s Award of £15,000.
Fees:	£25 application fee.
Site:	Enter here

TALP Open Art Competition

Organised by The Artist and Leisure Painter magazines in partnership with Patchings Art Centre with prizes worth over £19,000.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Successful entrants will be notified in mid-May. Last closed: 9th April 2024.
Prize:	The Artist Purchase Prize: £3,000 (One prize to purchase a work up to the value of £3,000) Patchings Award: £350 (gift voucher for Patchings Art Centre) Clairefontaine Awards: £250 (2 prizes of £250 worth of art products) Caran d’Ache/Jakar Awards: £250 (2 prizes of £250 worth of art materials) St Cuthberts Mill Awards: £200 (3 prizes of £200 worth of watercolour paper) Daler-Rowney Awards: £200 (3 prizes of £200 worth of art materials) Search Press Awards: £175 2 prizes of £175 worth of art books) Lots more prizes, full list here.
Show:	Patchings Art Centre, Nottingham (70 works selected in each category, 11 July to 11 August 2024)
What:	2D works in any media including drawings, paintings, printmaking and digital artwork from amateur painters in the Leisure Painter category, and from more experienced and professional artists in The Artist category.
Who:	UK & International artists (All ages. Young artist categories: under 18, 18-30)
Past:	TALP Open 2023 gallery
Fees:	Up to 3 artworks: £25, up to six artworks: £45
Site:	Enter here

Merrion Plinth Award

First held in 2019, this biennial contemporary art award from the Merrion Hotel in Dublin comes with a prize of a €5,000 bursary.

Close:	TBA currently closed
News:	Installation will take place in summer 2024. Last closed: 12th April 2024.
Prize:	Award: €5,000 (The selected artist will be exhibited in a dedicated area in the The Merrion Hotel for 2 years)
What:	Proposals for new work are preferred but it must be capable of completion within a month of winners notification. It can also be an existing work that has not previously been exhibited.
Who:	Open to all professional artists resident in Ireland, Northern Ireland and the UK.
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

Prize Closures

. The National Open Art Prize (running since 1996) has closed until further notice.

The End!

And so concludes this UK Art Competitions list. I’ll keep adding more competition dates when they’re announced. Good luck if you decide to enter and let me know if you win! Back to top

UK Art Competitions

Our pick of the biggest and best UK and International Art Competitions in 2024 with prizes, deadlines and entry fees…

Currently Closed

Prize Closures

The End!

Featured Artists

Recent Posts

Categories

The Land of In Between – The Reinvention and Adventures of an Abstract Artist

Say Hello

Contact MoMa UK

About MoMa.co.uk

Close:	19th April 2024 enter now!
News:	Shortlist announced – June 2024.
Prize:	1st Prize: £1,000 (also includes: art supplies, 12 month mentorship programme, online solo exhibition, lifetime VAA membership, momentum programme, coaching session) 5 Highly Commended: (prizes include: Certificate, 121 Strategy session, 6 weeks Momentum Programme)
Show:	Online solo exhibition for winner
What:	Any visual art medium (i.e. drawing, printing, painting, photography, digital art, sculpture, mixed media)
Who:	UK and international artists
Past:	2023 award winners
Fees:	£20 entry, Free to premium members of the VAA (£11.99 a month)
Site:	Enter here

Close:	26th April 2024 enter now!
News:	Shortlist announcement: 29th May
Prize:	Award: £75,000 (Winner receives a cash prize of £75,000 and will also be commissioned to produce their piece for Elm Fields Farm, with an allocated budget of £80,000. Winner also receive two further Stonewater commissions to curate two additional pieces of public art for two sites anywhere in the UK. Two runners up will receive a commission from Stonewater to curate a piece of public art for a site anywhere in the UK)
What:	Artists from all disciplines are being asked to submit ideas for a piece of public art to be displayed on a development of 150 new homes at Elm Fields Farm in Coventry. The piece would be located on one of the green spaces on the site and should take the ecological aspects of the site into consideration. Your proposed art could be anything from an interactive or integrated architectural piece of artwork to a sculpture or mural. This year’s theme will explore what art means to different audiences, covering different disciplines and exploring inspiration, which will widen the scope of creativity even further. See the online brochure for more details.
Who:	UK based artists (over 18)
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Close:	29th April 2024 enter now!
News:	Pre-Selection results – Friday 3rd May, via Email.
Prize:	1st Prize: £750 (and Gold Memorial Bowl) Joan Cornish Willies Award: £400 (for Outstanding Traditional Miniature Oil Painting) Young Artists Award Award: £250 (age 18-30) People’s Choice Award: £250 Young Miniaturist Winner: £150 (age 16-17) Young Miniaturist Runner Up: £50 (age 16-17)
Show:	Bankside Gallery, London (26th June – 6th July 2024)
What:	The maximum overall sizes for miniatures including frame and mount, are: Rectangles and Ovals: 4.5″ x 6″ (11.5 x 15cm). Squares: 4.5″ x 4.5″ (11.5 x 11.5cm). Round: 4.5″ (11.5cm) diameter. Mounts: must not be wider than 3/4″ (2cm) top and sides with 1″ (2.5cm) at the bottom or 3/4″ (2cm) all round. Frames: should not be wider than 1″ (2.5cm) nor deeper than 3/4″ (2cm). Sculpture: should not exceed 8″ (20cm) across the longest measurement and include the base.
Who:	UK & International artists.
Past:	2023 award winners
Fees:	Age 31+ £18 per entry, £15 for artists age 18-30, free for artists age 16-17.
Site:	Enter here

Close:	30th April 2024 enter now!
News:	Selection Notification: 15th May.
Prize:	The Henrion Award: £3,000 (£3,000 cash prize) 2nd Prize: Vouchers (from MH Oil Paints and Rosemary & Co.) 3rd Prize: Workshop (a week long studio workshop) People’s Choice Award: TBA Young Artists Award: Vouchers (from MH Oil Paints)
Show:	Gallery 8 on Duke Street, Mayfair, London (7-13 July 2024)
What:	Oil, acrylic, watercolour, original prints of any media, mixed media, drawings, pastels, or sculpture. All work must be framed and for sale, commission is 35% if sold.
Who:	UK & International artists (over 18)
Past:	Previous award winners
Fees:	£12 per work (max 7)
Site:	Enter here

Close:	30th April 2024enter now!
News:	Applicants will be notified by email in May. Last closed: 29th February 2024.
Prize:	10 x $400 (10 winners will each receive a cash prize of $400 USD, a professional profile on the Homiens website, participation in the online exhibition and catalogue, publication in the Homiens 60, an optional interview, and may request a letter of recommendation)
Show:	Online exhibition for at least 18 selected artists.
What:	All art forms, any theme.
Who:	UK & International artists
Past:	Previous winners
Fees:	$20 USD for 1-3 artworks
Site:	Enter here

Close:	2nd May 2024enter now!
News:	Finalists selected: 31st May (At least 30 fine art submissions will be selected for the touring exhibition. All finalists will be contacted by phone or email).
Prize:	Fine Art First Prize: £5,000 Second Prize: £1,000 Third Prize: £500 Young Fine Artist (16-25): £500
Show:	Scottish Arts Club, Edinburgh (7-29 Sep 2024) Duff House, Banff (October 2024) Glasgow Art Club (Dates TBA)
What:	Portraits in any 2D or 3D medium – all painting formats, all sculpture formats, collage, printmaking, weaving, or anything else – seeking diversity as well as powerful art and strong story-telling.
Who:	Anyone born, living or studying in Scotland (over 16 years old on 1 Sep 2023)
Past:	Previous winners
Fees:	£10 per work (Max 6. Free entry is available to anyone receiving universal credit or any form of income support)
Site:	Enter here

Close:	3rd May 2024 enter now!
News:	Filming is planned to take place around the UK in Spring/Summer 2024.
Prize:	First Prize Commission: £10,000 (plus £500 art materials from Cass Art)
What:	Landscape painting in any material excluding photography, video, sculpture and digital media.
Who:	UK Residents (for at least 1 year, over 16)
Fees:	No Entry Fee (1 maximum)
Site:	Enter here

Close:	5th May 2024 enter now!
News:	Announcement of nominees: July 2024. Award ceremony: November 2024.
Prize:	COAL Prize: €12,000 (and funded art residency at the Belval Domaine, Ardennes France) Ateliers Médicis award: €12,000 (and funded art residency in Clichy-sous-Bois/Montfermeil, in association with the Bondy regional forest) Jury’s Special Prize: €3,000 Centre Wallonie-Bruxelles/Paris mention: €2,000
What:	Theme: ‘Being Transformative’. “At a time when knowledge alone is no longer enough to motivate action, the Prix COAL 2024 calls for transformation from within, of the senses, of care, of the self with others. It’s a call to see culture as the breeding ground for our relationship with nature and, by the same token, our greatest asset in bringing about radical, sustainable change.”
Who:	UK & international artists
Past:	2023 Winners and Nominees.
Fees:	No entry fee
Site:	Enter here

Close:	9th May 2024 enter now!
News:	Deadline for site specific installations is 11th March.
Prize:	Howden Art Award: £2,000 Student Prize: £1,000 (current fine art students aged under 26) People’s Choice Prize: £500 St Cuthberts Mill Award: £120 (20 sheets of Saunders Waterford 300gsm worth over £120 will be awarded to an artist who works on paper.) NG Art Creative Residency: (two-week placement in Provence, includes board and lodging, studio space, mentorship and outings.)
Show:	Wells Cathedral, Somerset (3 – 31 Aug 2024)
What:	Any medium – painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, photography, installation or video. Installation applications here.
Who:	UK & international artists (18+)
Past:	Last year’s winners
Fees:	£20 per work (£12 per work for current fine art students aged under 26)
Site:	Enter here

Close:	20th May 2024 enter now!
News:	Shortlist date TBA
Prize:	First Prize: £400 Second Prize: £300 Third Prize: £200 People’s Choice: £100 Curator’s Prize: £100
Show:	Online exhibition opens: 3rd June 2024
What:	“As the global conversation around mental health continues to evolve, art has emerged as a powerful medium for self-expression. This exhibition celebrates the unique stories and perspectives of individuals who navigate their mental well-being through artistic channels. We invite you to be a part of this collective expression. Supported by the Doncaster Council for the past four years, this online exhibition has garnered thousands of visits from across the globe. At Doncaster Art Fair, we recognise the vital role that art plays in shaping societal dialogue, fostering mental health, and contributing to overall well-being. This opportunity is extended to those who have found solace and strength in art as a response to mental health challenges.”
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	Free to enter (artists will be charged a £30 participation fee if selected)
Site:	Enter here

Close:	31st May 2024enter now!
News:	10 artworks will be selected to take part in phase II of the competition by the end of June 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: €10,000 Second Prize: €8,000 Audience Favourite: €5,000
Show:	Finnish National Gallery, Helsinki (Sep/Oct 2024)
What:	Explore the collection of the Finnish National Gallery and read the competition programme and rules. Create your generative artwork and turn it into a generative art collection on highlight.xyz. Deploy it through sepolia testnet. Enter your submission to the contest through the website submission form. Submitted artworks must be created using an algorithm governed by artist-defined rules and parameters, generating dynamic variations. . Read the FAQs for more info.
Who:	UK & International artists
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

Close:	15th May 2024 enter now!
News:	Pre-selected artists notified: 24th May 2024.
Prize:	Green & Stone Award: Solo Show (fully funded solo show (worth £10,000) for the artist who exhibits a real feeling for their medium and its aesthetic potential) De Laszlo Foundation Young Artist Award: £3,000 (cash award to a young artist aged 30 or under) Gallery’s Choice: £1,000 (Green & Stone voucher to the artist who shows the most potential) Treadwell Materiality Award: £500 (cash prize to the artist who portrays a real interest and knowledge of materiality and their chosen medium) Damian Greenish Drawing Award: £500 (cash prize for the strongest drawing) Michael Harding Oil Painting Award 1st: £350 (worth of Michael Harding products) Schminke Award: Watercolour Box Set (Hodram Watercolour set in a wooden presentation box worth £150* to an artist who uses watercolour in an innovative way)* Sennelier Award for Pastel: Pastel Box Set (Sennelier Wooden Box Set of 175 Soft Pastels worth £795) Michael Harding Oil Painting Award 2nd: TBA (vouchers for Michael Harding products)
Show:	The Gallery at Green & Stone, Fulham Road, London (30 Jul – 30 Aug 2024)
What:	Open to 2D & 3D works that must be available for sale from June to September 2023, and made in the last three years. Works should not exceed 100cm x 100cm or been exhibited in London already. All mediums are welcome, including but not limited to: painting, drawing, sculpture, mixed media, photography, print and textile.
Who:	UK & International artists
Past:	Last year’s Summer Exhibition
Fees:	£20 per work, £15 for young artists under 30 (max 3 artworks)
Site:	Enter here

Close:	3rd June 2024 enter now!
News:	Results posted on website by 6pm on 25 July.
Prize:	John Purcell Paper Award: £200 (worth of paper) Oliver Pattison Framing Prize: £120 (worth of framing) Society of Wood Engravers Prize: £100 (cash prize plus one year subscription to the SWE journal Multiples) Intaglio Printmaker Prize: £100 (art supplies voucher) Hawthorn Printmaker Supplies Award: £150 (worth of materials) Marcus Campbell Art Books: £100 (to spend on books in store) Southbank Printmakers Prize: £75 (cash prize) Various other prizes, view full list
Show:	Bankside Gallery, London (19-29 Sep 2024)
What:	Small But Mighty showcases all forms of printmaking and highlights the powerful, ambitious and impressive nature of works created on a small scale. The size limit for works in this exhibition is 50cm on the longest edge (including framing).
Who:	UK & International artists (18 and over)
Fees:	£16 per work (max 6 works, students £10 per work)
Site:	Enter here

Close:	12th June 2024 enter now!
News:	Shortlisted drawings will be announced on 19 July 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: £8,000 Second Prize: £5,000 Student Prize: £2,000
Show:	Trinity Buoy Wharf, London (3–18 October 2024)
What:	Any media considered as drawing. Only drawings made since January 2023 are eligible for entry.
Who:	UK & International artists
Past:	2023 winners
Fees:	1 work: £30, 2 works: £45, 3 works: £55 (students £18/£25/£30)
Site:	Enter here

Close:	14th June 2024 enter now!
News:	Shortlisted artists will be notified by mail. Works must be delivered between 10-14 June in person or by carrier.
Prize:	Adult 1st Prize: £1,200 Adult 2nd Prize: £600 Adult 3rd Prize: £300 Ages 12-17 Winner: £100 Ages 11 and Under Winner: £50
Show:	Selected works to be displayed at MOMA Machynlleth (22 Jun – 4 Sep 2024)
What:	Any 2D work, including photography. Max size with frame: 36 x 48 inches. Theme: “On a windy day”.
Who:	UK & International artists (winners must be able to get their work to museum between 10-14 June 2024)
Past:	Last year’s winners
Fees:	Adult entry fee: £17.50. Under 18 entry fee: £5. (Max 1 work. Purhcase entry in advance here)
Site:	Enter here

Close:	30th June 2024 enter now!
News:	Longlist announced: 30th July, Shortlist: 16th August.
Prize:	Painting First Prize – The Women In Art Initiative: £1,000 (plus £250 of Cass Art vouchers and solo show at The Cass Art Space, Islington. Winning work shown at Zebra One Gallery, Hampstead. Feature in Fabric Magazine. Interview and studio visit/outreach campaign via Love London.) Painting Runner-Up Prize: £500 Tim May Memorial prize: £1,500 Susan Angoy Artist of African & Caribbean Heritage Award: £1,500 Photography First Prize – Eve Arnold Award: £1,000 (plus £250 worth of printing or retouching at Genesis Imaging. Winning work shown at Zebra One Gallery, Hampstead.) Photography Runner Up prize: £250 Award for Young Woman Artist: £250 (26 years and Under) Best Overseas Artist: £250 People’s Vote Prize: £250 Hosking House Residency: (for those aged 40+) Mall Galleries Prize for Best Figurative Painting: (10 free entries to Open Exhibitions, worth £180)
Show:	London exhibition for 22 finalists (location/dates TBA)
What:	Painters, Photographers, Illustrators and Printmakers. Work must have been completed in the last two years. (Max size: 100cm wide x 130cm. All work must be for sale. Commission on sales is 35%)
Who:	Any female artist age 18 and over living and working in the UK (Overseas artists may enter to win the Prize for Best Overseas Artist)
Past:	2023 winner.
Fees:	£25 (allows up to 2 artworks, £15 for students)
Site:	Enter here

Close:	2nd July 2024 enter now!
News:	The 50 artists selected to exhibit will be notified by email, date TBA.
Prize:	Best Adult: $2,000 Best Student: $2,000 People’s Choice: $2,000
Show:	Multiple locations in Southwest Florida (Jan-Apr 2025)
What:	Artists are asked to submit their interpretation of the theme “embracing our differences.” Your art should be horizontal and fit an aspect ratio of 12.8” (325.12 mm) wide by 8.8” (223.52 mm) high.
Who:	UK & International artists of all ages
Past:	2023 Exhibitors
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

Close:	17th July 2024 enter now!
Date:	Shortlist of 140 Finalists announced between 13-17 August.
Prize:	Grand Prize: $10,000 (solo show at Tampa’s Musonium Gallery, group show in San Francisco, print editorial & interview in Beautiful Bizarre Magazine, glass art award trophy & more prizes) RAYMAR Traditional Art Award: $3,750 (plus $1,500 of art photography and/or Fine Art archival print reproduction and more prizes) Digital Art Award: $3,750 (plus XPPen Artist Pro 16 (Gen 2), group show, glass art award trophy, magazine feature, and more prizes) Yasha Young Projects Sculpture Award: $3,400 (plus $250 of art materials, group show, magazine feature, glass art award trophy and more prizes) Photography Award: $3,000 (plus group show, magazine feature, glass art award trophy and more prizes) 33PA Emerging Artist Award: $3,000 (plus XPPen Deco Pro MW (Gen 2), group show, magazine feature, glass art award trophy and more prizes) People’s Choice Award: $2,000 (plus XPPen Deco Pro MW (Gen 2), group show, magazine feature, glass art award trophy and more prizes)
Show:	Modern Eden Gallery, San Francisco (9 Nov – 5 Dec)
What:	Entries in any medium or style of static visual ‘Representational Art’
Who:	UK and international artists of all ages
Past:	Article on Winners and Honourable Mentions 2023
Fees:	$40 entry fee (US Dollars)
Site:	Enter here

Close:	15th September 2024 enter now!
News:	The winning artwork will be selected during the course of the Royal National Mòd week, to be announced at a prize giving ceremony on 18th October 2024.
Prize:	First Prize: £1,000 (the winning artist will also have the opportunity to mount an exhibition during 2025 in a street-front space at The Briggait cultural hub in central Glasgow.)
Show:	The Briggait, Glasgow (2025)
What:	Only two-dimensional artwork can be accepted and should have been completed in the preceding 12 months; photographic work is not eligible.
Who:	Artists working across the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.
Fees:	Free to enter
Site:	Enter here

Close:	31st October 2024 enter now!
News:	All entrants will be notified of the result by email.
Prize:	First Prize: €500 (and editorial coverage in a future issue of Anthology)
What:	Open to multiple genres including painting, printmaking, mixed media, photography and digital media. Work will be accepted on any theme. It is not a requirement, but is advisable that work submitted is aligned with the aesthetic of Anthology magazine.
Who:	UK & International artists
Past:	2022 winner
Fees:	Very Early Bird: €10 – to 31 March 2024, Early Bird: €12 – April–June 2024, Standard: €18 – July–October 2024
Site:	Enter here

UK Art Competitions

Our pick of the biggest and best UK and International Art Competitions in 2024 with prizes, deadlines and entry fees…

Currently Closed

Prize Closures

The End!

Featured Artists

Most Popular Posts

Recent Posts

Categories

The Land of In Between – The Reinvention and Adventures of an Abstract Artist

Say Hello

Contact MoMa UK

About MoMa.co.uk

Most Popular Posts