Organizer Information:

Artists & Illustrators, the UK’s best-selling art magazine, presents The British Art Prize. Supported by major brands like STAEDTLER, this international competition provides a far-reaching platform for artists to gain valuable publicity, sell their work to a massive audience, and celebrate contemporary art.

Title & Description:

Applications are open for The British Art Prize 2026.

This major art competition exposes winning artists to nearly a million art lovers and collectors. A rotating panel of expert judges will select a shortlist of up to 75 works. All shortlisted artists will have their work showcased in a prestigious group exhibition at the iconic OXO Gallery in London and will be invited to an exclusive VIP private view reception alongside collectors and industry professionals.

Category:

Paintings, drawings, textiles, prints, and mixed media

Eligibility:

  • Who: Open to amateur, emerging, and professional artists worldwide. Collaborative artworks are permitted. (Applicants under 18 must provide additional details).
  • Requirements: Artworks must be entirely original, and the artist must hold all rights.
  • Restrictions: AI-generated works, giclée reproductions, and copies are strictly prohibited. Artworks (including multi-panel pieces) must not exceed 275 x 275 cm or project more than 50 cm from the wall.

Program Benefits & Awards:

A prize fund worth over £10,000 GBP is available, with all winners featured in the magazine and exhibited at OXO Gallery:

  • Overall Winner: £2,000 GBP cash, a solo exhibition at Panter & Hall’s Cecil Court Gallery, a bundle of STAEDTLER materials, and a 6-page magazine feature.
  • Second Prize: £500 GBP cash, a £750 GBP Derwent materials voucher, and a special issue feature.
  • Third Prize: £750 GBP Royal Talens voucher and a special issue feature.
  • Raw Umber Studios Prize: £750 GBP cash and a special issue feature.
  • People’s Choice Award: £1,000 GBP in Clairefontaine products and a 6-page feature.

Application Fee:

  • £24 GBP for the first artwork.
  • £19 GBP for each additional artwork (maximum of 20 works permitted).

Application Requirements:

Register, pay the entry fee, and upload high-quality digital images of your artwork via the online portal.

Key Dates:

  • Application Deadline: August 7, 2026 (5:00 PM).
  • People's Choice Vote: September 25, 2026.
  • Exhibition Dates: October 21 – 25, 2026 (OXO Gallery, London).

Location:

London, United Kingdom.