Organizer Information

KünstlerGilde e.V., based in Esslingen, Germany, is a non-profit association dedicated to supporting artists in Visual Arts, Literature, and Music. The organization hosts awards, exhibitions, and publications to promote artistic practice and recognition. The Lesser-Ury-Preis is a biennial art award emphasizing contemporary Painting and celebrates works that engage with specific thematic and technical criteria.

Title & Description

Lesser-Ury-Preis 2026 – Theme: “Kristallin” The Lesser-Ury-Preis 2026 invites artists to submit original Paintings using Oil or Acrylic on canvas, exploring the theme of “Kristallin.” Each submission must be a single work with a maximum size of 50 x 70 cm. Artists are required to submit a high-resolution digital image (300 dpi, max. 2 MB) for initial consideration. The award provides recognition and publication opportunities through the KünstlerGilde’s Magazine, website, and social media channels. Shortlisted works will be exhibited in Esslingen, Germany, in mid-April 2026. While the prize is honorary and currently not financially endowed, it offers visibility and acknowledgment within the German and international art community.

Categories

  • Painting
  • Visual Arts
  • Contemporary Art

Eligibility

  • Open to all artists aged 18 and above.
  • Individual submissions only (no teams).
  • Only original works; overpainted photographs and informal works are excluded.

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Recognition through the Lesser-Ury-Preis.
  • Publication of selected works in the KünstlerGilde Magazine, website, and social media.
  • Shortlisted works will be displayed in an exhibition in Esslingen, Germany.
  • Networking and exposure to curators and peers in the German art community.

Application Fee

None

Application Requirements

  • High-resolution digital image of the painting (300 dpi, max 2 MB).
  • One-page artist CV including exhibition history.
  • Contact information (email, phone, address).

How to Apply?

Submit your application via email to: lesser-ury-kunstpreis@kuenstlergilde.eu

Key Dates

  • Submission Deadline: 28 February 2026
  • Shortlist Exhibition: Mid-April 2026
  • Exhibition Location: Esslingen, Germany (Küferstr. 37, Wolfstor)
  • Vernissage: Date TBD

Location

Esslingen, Germany

Additional Details

  • Shortlisted artists will be asked to send the original painting for the exhibition.
  • Packaging must not exceed 120 x 60 x 60 cm; oversized works will not be returned.
  • The KünstlerGilde does not provide insurance; artists are responsible for their work.
  • The jury’s decisions are final and not subject to appeal.
  • Participation implies agreement for publication in print and online media of the KünstlerGilde.

Website Link: https://www.kuenstlergilde.eu/lesser-ury-preis-2026/