Organizer Information
Aesthetica Magazine is a leading UK-based publication dedicated to contemporary art, culture, and creative practice. Established to explore innovative and emerging voices in the arts, Aesthetica provides critical coverage, exhibition opportunities, and platforms for both established and emerging artists. The Aesthetica Art Prize, launched by the magazine, has become a recognized international award celebrating excellence across artistic disciplines, encouraging a diverse range of creative voices and fostering professional development.
Title & Description
Aesthetica Art Prize 2026
The call invites artists from all disciplines to submit works on any theme. The prize aims to discover, promote, and reward outstanding contemporary art, offering a platform for creative expression and professional recognition. Artists may submit up to two works per entry, including collaborative projects. The competition embraces diverse practices, encouraging innovative approaches and works produced within the last three years. Selected artists gain exposure through editorial coverage in Aesthetica Magazine, an online profile, and exhibition opportunities in a major public gallery. The program seeks to connect artists to an international audience, fostering engagement, dialogue, and future opportunities in the contemporary art sector.
Categories
- Visual Art
- Photography
- Film & Video
- Performance
- Architecture
- Fashion
- Creative Writing
- Interdisciplinary Projects (works combining multiple media are accepted)
Eligibility
- Open to international artists of all levels, including students and graduates.
- Emerging Prize: specifically for students and graduates from the last three years.
- Collaborative works are accepted.
- There are no age or nationality restrictions.
Program Benefits & Awards
Main Prize
- £10,000 prize money
- Group exhibition in a major public gallery
- Editorial coverage in Aesthetica Magazine and online
- Artist profile on the Aesthetica website
Emerging Prize
- £1,000 prize money
- Group exhibition in a major public gallery
- Editorial coverage in Aesthetica Magazine and online
- Artist profile on the Aesthetica website
Shortlisted Artists
- Group exhibition
- Editorial coverage
- Online profile
Longlisted Artists
- Online profile
- Ongoing professional support
Application Fee
- Regular Entry: £25 (1 Dec 2025 – 31 Aug 2026)
- Late Entry: £35 (1 – 6 Sep 2026)
Application Requirements
- Completed entry form (emailed after registration)
- CV and portfolio
- Web-resolution images of submitted works
- Personal information and contact details
- Optional: motivation letter or statement
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Regular Deadline: 31 August 2026
- Late Entries: 1 – 6 September 2026
- Judging Begins: Autumn 2026
- Results Announcement: Early 2027
- Exhibition & Winners Announced: Spring 2027
Location
York, United Kingdom
Additional Details
- No restrictions on size or medium of work
- Works previously exhibited or published are eligible
- Artists are responsible for the transportation of artworks for the exhibition
- Refunds offered within 30 days of entry purchase if withdrawn
