Organizer Information

The Tisa von der Schulenburg-Stiftung, located in Dorsten, Germany, is a non-profit foundation dedicated to preserving and promoting the artistic and humanistic legacy of Tisa von der Schulenburg (1903–2001), also known as Schwester Paula. The foundation emphasizes empathy, social engagement, and human dignity in art, reflecting Tisa’s focus on people in extreme situations, labor conditions, and existential themes. It organizes exhibitions, competitions, and grants to support emerging artists who align with these values, fostering professional development, public engagement, and promotion of socially relevant artistic practice.

Title & Description

Tisa von der Schulenburg-Preis 2026
This prestigious German art award honors emerging artists working in Painting, Sculpture, Graphic Arts, and Drawing. The prize celebrates works that demonstrate technical skill and deep engagement with social, existential, or humanistic themes, reflecting the legacy of Tisa von der Schulenburg. The award includes a €10,000 cash prize and a solo exhibition of the winning works. The exhibition is scheduled between September and December 2026 at the foundation’s exhibition spaces and is part of the larger program “Tisa von der Schulenburg: Der empathische Blick” at the Deutsches Bergbau-Museum, Bochum.

Categories

  • Painting
  • Sculpture
  • Graphic Arts
  • Drawing

Eligibility

  • Artists living and working in Germany, or German citizens, regardless of residence
  • Born in 1986 or later (up to 40 years old in 2026)
  • Emerging and professional artists in the specified disciplines

Program Benefits & Awards

  • €10,000 cash prize
  • Solo exhibition of the prize-winning works, curated in collaboration with the foundation
  • Public presentation within the exhibition program “FÜHLST DU? Tisa von der Schulenburg – Der empathische Blick” at the Deutsches Bergbau-Museum, Bochum
  • Professional visibility and recognition within the German art community

Application Fee

None

Application Requirements

  • First page: Name, contact information (email, address, phone), birthdate
  • Second page: CV/biography (max one page)
  • Work samples representing current artistic practice (Painting, Sculpture, Graphic Arts, Drawing)
  • Maximum 20 pages, PDF format, DIN A4 landscape, max file size 8 MB
  • Pages must be numbered and include the applicant’s name

How to Apply?

Online Application

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 22 February 2026
  • Exhibition Period: September – December 2026

Location

Germany (exhibition at Dorsten and Bochum)

Additional Details

  • The award emphasizes works reflecting existential, social, or humanistic concerns
  • Jury decisions are final and not publicly explained; jury composition may vary
  • Selected works may be used for promotional materials; copyright remains with the artist
  • Participants agree to the foundation’s data privacy and competition rules
  • Travel, shipping, and materials costs are the responsibility of the artist unless additional funding is secured

Website Link: https://www.tisa-stiftung.de/tisa-preis-2026/