Organizer Information
The Kunsthalle Hochschwarzwald Stiftung is a Germany-based cultural foundation dedicated to supporting and promoting contemporary artistic practices. Located in the Black Forest region, the institution plays an active role in fostering artistic production and cultural dialogue through exhibitions, events, and awards. The Kunsthalle Hochschwarzwald serves as both an exhibition space and a platform for emerging and established artists, particularly within the field of visual and performing arts.
Through its annual Kulturpreis (Culture Prize), the foundation aims to recognize outstanding artistic contributions and provide financial and institutional support to artists. The award alternates yearly between disciplines, reflecting the foundation’s commitment to a broad spectrum of artistic practices.
Title & Description
Kulturpreis 2026 – Kunsthalle Hochschwarzwald (Visual Arts Award)
The Kulturpreis 2026, organized by the Kunsthalle Hochschwarzwald Stiftung, is an annual art award dedicated to recognizing excellence in contemporary artistic practice. The 2026 edition marks the first cycle focusing on Visual Arts, with future editions alternating between visual and performing arts disciplines.
This open call invites artists to submit a digital portfolio showcasing their work. The competition is designed to identify and reward artists whose work demonstrates strong artistic merit and is suitable for exhibition. Selected winners will not only receive financial prizes but will also have the opportunity to present their work publicly at the Kunsthalle Hochschwarzwald in Wieden, Germany.
The award emphasizes professional presentation and artistic integrity. Applicants are required to submit a coherent portfolio that clearly reflects their artistic vision and practice. The selected artists will be featured both physically—through exhibition or event presentation—and digitally via the institution’s website and communication channels.
Categories
- Visual Art
- Fine Art
- Contemporary Art
- Exhibition-based Practices
Eligibility
- Open to artists worldwide
- Applicants must be 18 years or older
- Must be actively engaged in artistic practice
- Submissions must represent original work created by the applicant
There are no restrictions regarding career stage, making this opportunity accessible to emerging, mid-career, and established artists.
Program Benefits & Awards
Three winners will be selected by a jury composed of members of the foundation’s board:
- First Prize: €1,500
- Second Prize: €1,000
- Third Prize: €500
Additional benefits include:
- €500 travel and production support for participation in the award-related exhibition or event
- Opportunity to present work at the Kunsthalle Hochschwarzwald in Wieden
- Professional visibility through publication on the institution’s website
- Promotion via press and social media channels
This award provides both financial recognition and an exhibition platform, making it valuable for artists seeking visibility in the European art context.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Portfolio of artistic work (exhibition-ready projects)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Contact details
- Short artist biography
- Declaration confirming authorship of submitted works
- Consent allowing the foundation to use images of the work for promotional purposes
The portfolio must be clearly structured and professionally presented.
How to Apply?
Applications must be submitted via email: stiftung@kunsthallehochschwarzwald.com
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 30 August 2026
- Notification of Results: Winners will be informed in writing (date not specified)
- Award Event / Exhibition: Takes place following selection (exact date to be announced)
Location
Wieden, Germany
Additional Details
- The jury consists of members of the foundation’s board
- There is no legal entitlement to receive the award
- Submitted works must be suitable for exhibition
- Selected artists must be prepared to participate in the award presentation event
- The foundation retains the right to publish submitted works for promotional purposes
This opportunity is particularly suitable for artists seeking recognition through a formal award structure combined with exhibition exposure in Germany.