Organizer Information
The Kunstverein zu Frechen e.V. is a non-profit association of art enthusiasts and practicing artists based in Frechen, near Cologne, Germany. Since 1970, the association has organized the Internationale Grafik-Triennale (International Graphic Triennial) — first as a biennial exhibition, and, since 1983, as a triennial event held every three years. It is presented in cooperation with the City of Frechen and is widely recognized within Germany as the largest international competition dedicated specifically to artistic printmaking held in the country. Over more than five decades, the Triennale has built a track record of drawing entries from artists across dozens of countries, positioning it as a long-running fixture in the international printmaking calendar.
Title & Description
XXI. Grafik-Triennale 2027 (21st German International Exhibition of Graphic Art)
This is the 21st edition of the worldwide open-call competition for contemporary printmaking, organized by the Kunstverein zu Frechen e.V. in cooperation with the City of Frechen. Its stated purpose is the promotion of contemporary international printmaking. Selected works are shown in a juried exhibition in Frechen and reproduced in an accompanying bilingual (German/English) exhibition catalogue.
Categories
- Printmaking
- Visual Arts
Eligibility
- Open to professional artists worldwide (no nationality restriction stated)
- Submitted works must fall within the category of printmaking
- Accepted techniques include both traditional printmaking (woodcut, linocut, screen printing, etching, etc.) and new graphic techniques such as computer printing
- The technique used must function as a meaningful means of formal and content-based expression, not as a mere reproduction method
- Three-dimensional works and unique (one-off) pieces are eligible, provided they fall within the scope of printmaking
- Works must have been created within the last three years (2023 or later)
- Maximum size: sum of length + width under 250 cm (flat works); sum of length + width + height under 250 cm (three-dimensional works)
Program Benefits & Awards
- First Prize: €3,000
- Second Prize: €2,000
- Third Prize: €1,500
- Sponsorship/Development Prize (for artists still in training/education): €1,000
- Audience Prize (voted by exhibition visitors): €200
- Inclusion of selected works in a bilingual (German/English) exhibition catalogue
- For the second jury round: the organizer covers framing costs for works up to 90 x 120 cm
- The organizer covers all exhibition costs, including advertising, insurance, the opening event, and presentation
Application Fee
€40, charged to all entrants who are shortlisted and submit original works to the second-round expert jury (the preliminary online application itself is free).
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Online Application Window (Round 1): 15 July 2026 – 29 September 2026
- Original Artwork Submission Deadline (Round 2, received by organizer): 12 January 2027
- Exhibition: 18 June 2027 – 11 July 2027
Location
Stadtsaal Frechen, Frechen, Germany
Additional Details
- Selection takes place in two rounds: an internal jury first reviews all email/online applications to determine which artists advance; a five-member expert jury then reviews original works to decide on inclusion in the exhibition/catalogue and to select prize winners.
- The five-member expert jury is composed of one representative each from the Kunstverein zu Frechen e.V., art criticism, universities, museums, and practicing artists.
- Works larger than 90 x 120 cm are hung unframed in the exhibition.
- The organizer's liability for original works begins upon delivery to the Kunstverein zu Frechen e.V. (P.O. Box 1507, 50205 Frechen) and ends upon handover for return transport. Damaged works cannot be accepted.
- If any works are sold during the exhibition, the Kunstverein charges a 30% commission on the sale.
- The call for entries is explicitly stated to be subject to the Triennale's financing being secured.