Organizer Information
The Institute for South Asia Studies at UC Berkeley is one of the world’s leading centers for research and public programs on South Asia. Within the Institute, the South Asia Art Initiative (SAAI) serves as a vibrant hub for the study and celebration of South Asian art. SAAI promotes diverse artistic expressions and critical dialogues through exhibitions, lectures, and fellowships. By leveraging the academic excellence of UC Berkeley, the Initiative bridges the gap between traditional heritage and contemporary innovation, fostering a global community of artists, scholars, and curators.
Title & Description
The UC Berkeley South Asia Art Initiative Art Awards
These awards are designed to recognize and support exceptional artistic talent that explores the complexities of South Asia and its global diaspora. The program highlights artists whose work pushes the boundaries of contemporary practice while engaging with the social, cultural, and political landscapes of the region. The primary goal is to provide a platform for artists to gain international visibility and to foster a deeper understanding of South Asian narratives through high-impact visual and conceptual storytelling.
Categories
The call is open to a wide range of media and disciplines, emphasizing innovation and technical mastery:
- Visual Arts: Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, and Installation.
- Media Arts: Video Art, Digital Media, and Animation.
- Photography: Documentary and Conceptual.
- Textile Art: Including contemporary adaptations of traditional techniques.
- Interdisciplinary: Works that merge performance, sound, and visual elements.
Eligibility
- International: Open to artists globally who identify as South Asian or whose work is deeply rooted in South Asian themes.
- Career Stage: Primarily focused on Emerging and Mid-career artists who demonstrate a significant commitment to their practice.
- Geographic Scope: Includes artists from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, as well as the global diaspora.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Monetary Prizes: Cash awards are typically granted to selected winners (specific amounts vary by cycle, often ranging from $1,000 to $5,000).
- Exhibition Opportunities: Winners may be featured in physical or digital exhibitions hosted by UC Berkeley.
- Recognition: Artists receive formal accreditation from a world-class academic institution, significantly boosting their professional profile.
- Networking: Inclusion in the SAAI network, providing connections to curators, academics, and peer artists worldwide.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Portfolio: A PDF containing 5–10 high-quality images of recent work.
- Artist Statement: A concise text (300–500 words) explaining the conceptual framework of their work and its relation to South Asia.
- Professional CV: Detailing education, exhibitions, and previous awards.
- Biography: A short narrative bio (max 200 words).
- Reference: Contact information for one professional reference may be requested.
How to Apply?
The submission package, including the dissertation, must be in English and submitted via email to: pkala@berkeley.edu
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 10 January 2026
Location
Berkeley, California, United States
Additional Details
The selection committee is comprised of distinguished faculty members, curators, and established artists. They prioritize work that offers a "unique perspective" on South Asian identity and history. Artists should ensure their digital portfolio is formatted for high-resolution viewing, as the initial judging is conducted entirely through digital submissions.