Organizer Information

The Arte Laguna Prize is a world-renowned contemporary art competition based in Venice, Italy. Managed by the MoCA Association (Modern Contemporary Art), the prize has spent over twenty years acting as a global catalyst for creative growth. By bridging the gap between artistic interpretation and industrial rigor, Arte Laguna Prize fosters a network of synergies that includes international galleries, sustainability-focused partners, and major global corporations.

International Contemporary Art Competition: Arte Laguna Prize

Title & Description

Arte Laguna Prize 2026: Special Prizes and International Residencies

This program is designed to move beyond traditional exhibitions, transforming art into an engine for innovation and dialogue. The Special Prizes offer concrete, transformative career opportunities through a curated network of global collaborators. Selected artists are given the chance to push creative boundaries via site-specific projects, high-value residencies, and partnerships with forward-thinking companies. This year's focus highlights the intersection of technological innovation, sustainability, and cultural heritage, providing a professional springboard into the global art market.

Category

Multidisciplinary (Visual Arts, Sculpture, Installation, Painting, Digital Art, Photography, New Media Art, and Performance Art)

Eligibility

  • Open to International and domestic artists of all ages and career stages.

  • Works in any discipline are eligible for consideration for the residency programs.

  • Specific eligibility for the "Sustainability" prize (Ricardo Palma University) and "Business for Art" (Gabe Tenute).

  • No restrictions on nationality; the network spans Italy, Australia, China, Peru, Romania, and Croatia.

Program Benefits & Awards

  • International Residencies:

    • The Swatch Art Peace Hotel (Shanghai): 3-month residency including travel, B&B accommodation, and a studio.

    • BigCi (Australia): Immersive experience in a UNESCO World Heritage site.

    • NY20+ (China): Innovative art complex in Chengdu.

    • Litix Spa (Italy): 2-week residency in Carrara with a block of marble and a €1,500 grant.

    • LAB852 (Croatia): Residency for the Jelsa Art Biennial.

    • MoCA (Venice): Residency at the founding association’s headquarters.

  • Exhibition & Cash Prizes:

    • Gabe Tenute: €2,000 prize and a site-specific work.

    • Gallery Studio 76: Exhibition in Romania.

    • Sustainability Prize: Promoted by Ricardo Palma University (Peru).

Application Fee

  • Artists Under 35 (born on or after January 1, 1991): €97.60 (VAT included).

  • Artists Over 35 (born on or before December 31, 1990): €122.00 (VAT included).

  • Selection Fee: None for the Special Prize category once entered.

What this fee covers

  • The submission of up to 5 artworks (which can be in different categories).

  • A dedicated page on the Arte Laguna World portal.

  • Free participation in the Special Prizes (residencies, galleries, business collaborations) if you fill out the dedicated forms.

Additional Works: If you wish to submit more than 5 works, there is an additional cost of €24.40 per extra work.

Application Requirements

  • Create a personal account on the Arte Laguna World portal.

  • Submit a portfolio reflecting a cohesive artistic practice.

  • For site-specific and residency calls, the jury evaluates original thought and professional potential.

  • Selection: Juried by international curators and partner representatives.

How to Apply?

Artists must submit their applications through the dedicated Arte Laguna World platform. Apply via Arte Laguna World

Key Dates

  • General Deadline for Special Prizes: June 30, 2026.

  • Residency Windows: Scheduled throughout late 2026 and 2027 depending on the partner.

Location

Italy, Venice (Global network including China, Australia, Romania, Croatia, and Peru).

Website Link: Arte Laguna Prize