Organizer Information
The Académie des beaux-arts (Academy of Fine Arts) is one of the five academies of the Institut de France. Its mission is to defend and promote France's artistic heritage and to encourage all forms of artistic expression. Established in 1971 by Pierre David-Weill, a member of the Academy, this specific prize is dedicated to celebrating the "fundamental gesture of drawing." The Academy provides a bridge between traditional artistic excellence and the contemporary generation, offering significant financial support and institutional recognition.
Title & Description
Prix de Dessin Pierre David-Weill 2026 (Pierre David-Weill Drawing Prize)
This annual competition aims to encourage the practice of drawing among young artists. The prize recognizes the mastery of line, composition, and the unique sensitivity of the hand-drawn mark. It is not themed, allowing artists total creative freedom, but it focuses strictly on the discipline of drawing (excluding painting and engraving) to highlight the purity of the medium.
Categories
- Primary Discipline: Drawing
- Technical Constraints: Works must be in black or a single color (e.g., sanguine). All traditional drawing tools are accepted (pencil, charcoal, pen, ink, graphite, etc.). Multiple colors on a single drawing are not permitted.
Eligibility
- Age Limit: Open to artists who are under 40 years old (born after December 31, 1985).
- Nationality/Residency: Open to candidates of all nationalities. However, foreign candidates must have been living in France for at least six months at the time of application.
- Requirement: Candidates must present a "carton" (portfolio) of 2 to 5 original drawings.
Program Benefits & Awards
The prize is one of the best-endowed drawing awards in France:
- First Prize: €8,000
- Second Prize: €4,000
- Third Prize: €2,000
- Exhibition: The winners and selected finalists will have their works exhibited at the Galerie de l’Académie des beaux-arts (Galerie Vivienne) in Paris.
Application Fee
None.
Application Requirements
- CV/Presentation: A summary of the artist's background and career.
- Portfolio: Digital visuals of 2 to 5 drawings (title, dimensions, and technique must be specified).
- ID/Residence Proof: A valid ID for French nationals or proof of 6-month residence for foreign nationals.
- Dimensions: Physical drawings must not exceed the "Jésus" format (76 x 56 cm) and must be presented under a "passe-partout" (matting).
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 13 January 2026
- Pre-selection Notification: 30 January 2026
- Submission of Physical Works (for shortlisted): January 30 – February 6, 2026
- Exhibition Dates: March 12 – May 3, 2026
- Awards Ceremony: Current details suggest a ceremony during the exhibition period
Location
Paris, France
Additional Details
The jury is composed of members of the Academy's engraving, painting, and architecture sections. Artists should note that the "single-color" rule is strictly enforced—any work using a multi-color palette or techniques that lean too heavily into painting will be disqualified.18 The prize emphasizes the "gesture" and "spirit" of the drawing.