Organizer Information
CENTER Santa Fe is a nonprofit arts organization based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, dedicated to supporting contemporary Photography and lens‑based artistic practice. Since its founding in 1994, CENTER has built a global platform for photographers and visual storytellers through Award/Prize programs, curated exhibitions, professional development initiatives, and the annual Review Santa Fe symposium. Its mission is to elevate photographers’ work, facilitate critical dialogue in the field, and provide exposure opportunities via exhibitions, publications, and public presentations.Title & Description
Project Development Grant – CENTER Santa Fe Photography Awards 2026 The Project Development Grant 2026 supports photographers and lens‑based artists working on a work‑in‑progress documentary, fine art, or photojournalistic series. The grant is designed to help artists advance the development of significant visual projects through financial support, exhibition exposure, and professional growth opportunities. Applicants are invited to submit a cohesive portfolio of 7–10 images accompanied by a concise project statement (maximum 400 words). The selection process is juried, and recipients are chosen for their artistic rigor, narrative depth, and potential impact within the field of contemporary photography. This grant package not only provides monetary support but also integrates recipients into CENTER’s professional ecosystem, including participation in exhibitions and key programming such as Review Santa Fe.Categories
- Photography
- Documentary
- Fine Art
- Photojournalism
- Contemporary Art
Eligibility
- Open to international photographers and lens‑based artists from any country.
- Projects must be original and in progress (i.e., not yet completed).
- Solo submissions only; collaborative or group entries are not specified.
- Work can be derived from any photographic process; previously submitted projects may be re‑entered with new jurors each year.
Program Benefits & Awards
Project Advancement Package includes:- $5,000 USD grant to support the ongoing project.
- Exhibition of the recipient’s work in a group exhibition at CENTER Santa Fe.
- Participation in the Review Santa Fe Symposium, offering networking with curators, critics, and peers.
- Publication in the online photography journal Lenscratch.
- Access to professional development seminars hosted by CENTER.
- Inclusion in the printed Program Guide documenting awardees.
- Display and archiving in the CENTER Online Gallery & Archive.
Application Fee
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Entry fee: $35–$165 (members), $45–$210 (non-members) depending on submission stage
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Member discounts available
Application Requirements
- A portfolio of 7–10 high‑resolution images representing a cohesive project.
- A project statement (maximum 400 words) explaining the artistic intent, narrative focus, and development plan.
- Full contact information including email and mailing address.
- Any additional documentation required for submission via the official portal.
How to Apply?
Online ApplicationKey Dates
- Application Deadline: 28 February 2026
- Notifications: Typically announced in May 2026 as part of the Call for Entry cycle.
- Review Santa Fe Symposium Participation: October 22–25, 2026 (if selected) based on overall Awards & Grants schedule.
- Group Exhibition: October 2026 at CENTER Santa Fe (exact exhibition dates to be confirmed).
Location
Santa Fe, New Mexico, United StatesAdditional Details
- The Project Development Grant specifically supports projects in progress rather than completed bodies of work.
- Recipient work is archived and featured across CENTER’s platforms, increasing visibility in professional networks.
- The jury for 2026 includes photography curators and specialists (e.g., Shana Lopes, Assistant Curator of Photography at SFMOMA).
- Work submission guidelines allow photo‑based projects from a broad range of processes, and mixed media that incorporate photographic elements are accepted in other categories.