Organizer Information
The Ovissi Foundation is dedicated to supporting artists of Iranian heritage and promoting Iranian art and culture. The foundation offers financial awards, scholarships, and grants to artists and U.S.-based cultural organizations, fostering artistic programs that highlight contemporary and traditional Iranian creative expression. The foundation is chaired by Master Nasser Ovissi and Maryam Ovissi.
Title & Description
Gallery Ovissi 2026 Awards – Open Call
The Ovissi Foundation announces its 2026 awards, including the Ovissi Artist Award, Modern Craft – Ceramic Award, and Master’s of Fine Arts Scholarship. These awards recognize Iranian heritage artists and U.S.-based cultural organizations creating visual, performance, or multi-disciplinary programs. Applicants can receive financial support to produce exhibitions, performances, or artistic projects exploring diverse themes and cultural narratives. The awards promote professional visibility, support artistic development, and celebrate innovation in contemporary art.
Categories
- Visual Arts
- Multimedia
- Ceramic
- Performance
- Art Management
Eligibility
- Artists of Iranian heritage who are U.S. citizens
- U.S.-based cultural organizations (501(c)3) producing visual or performance programs
- Open to multi-media, ceramic, and visual arts projects
- MFA candidates (for the scholarship award) enrolled in recognized programs
Program Benefits & Awards
- Ovissi Artist Award – USD 1,000
- Modern Craft – Ceramic Award – USD 1,000
- Master’s of Fine Arts Scholarship – USD 1,500
- Support for artistic programs, exhibitions, or performances
- Professional recognition within the U.S. Iranian art community
- Opportunity to highlight contemporary and traditional Iranian cultural narratives
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Completed Google Form application (specific form for each award)
- Project description or MFA enrollment verification (for scholarship)
- Supporting images or documentation of proposed work
- Applicants may include multimedia or ceramic work documentation
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 1 March 2026
Location
United States
Additional Details
- Open to diversity of subject matter and thematic exploration
- Multi-media and ceramic works encouraged
- Projects promoting Iranian culture and contemporary artistic expression are prioritized
- Scholarships support both individual artists and U.S.-based non-profit organizations