Organizer Information
The Meitar Award for Excellence in Photography is organized by PHOTO IS:RAEL in partnership with the Zvi and Ofra Meitar Family Fund. Now in its tenth edition, the award celebrates outstanding photographers producing a cohesive body of work demonstrating originality, technical skill, conceptual depth, and the potential for a solo exhibition. A professional, independent jury of international photography experts reviews submissions anonymously, ensuring impartial assessment. The award has become one of the most prestigious recognitions for emerging and mid-career photographers globally, offering both exposure and professional support.
Title & Description
Meitar Award 2026 – Recognizing Excellence in Photography
The Meitar Award 2026 honors photographers creating exceptional bodies of work in contemporary photography. Artists are invited to submit projects that demonstrate innovation, conceptual strength, and high-quality execution. From a shortlist of 20 finalists, selected works will be included in a group exhibition at the International Photography Festival in Tel Aviv. The award winner will receive a cash grant, curatorial guidance, and production support for a solo exhibition integrated into the 2027 festival. The program aims to amplify emerging and established photographers’ visibility, facilitate professional growth, and encourage the development of comprehensive, exhibition-ready photographic projects.
Categories
Photography
Eligibility
- Open internationally to photographers of any nationality.
- Both emerging and mid-career professionals are welcome.
- No age restrictions.
- Applicants can submit a single body of work suitable for evaluation as a cohesive series.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Winner Grant: Total of $14,000 (including $2,500 personal grant).
- Curatorial Guidance: Professional mentoring for exhibition development.
- Solo Exhibition: Production support for a solo exhibition as part of the 2027 International Photography Festival.
- Finalist Exhibition: 20 shortlisted artists showcased in a group exhibition at the 2026 International Photography Festival.
- International Recognition: Exposure through festival promotion and jury endorsement.
Application Fee
- Early registration: $35 (until 19th March 2026)
- Late registration: $45 (from 20th March 2026)
Application Requirements
- Personal or professional information.
- Submission of a cohesive body of photographic work.
- Project description and context.
- High-quality images suitable for exhibition review.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Early Registration Deadline: 2026/03/19
- Regular Registration Deadline: 2026/04/12
- Submission Deadline: 2026/04/12
- Finalists Notification: 2026/11/02
- Group Exhibition & Winner Announcement: November 2026
Location
Tel Aviv, Israel / Online
Additional Details
- Works may be conceptual or ongoing; commercial release is not required.
- Previously exhibited or awarded projects may be eligible.
- Finalists and winners receive significant visibility and mentorship opportunities.
- Awarded projects gain production support for a professional solo exhibition.