The Meridian Award: $1,000 Unrestricted Cash Prize for Contemporary Artists
The Meridian Award
Submit work in any medium for consideration for a $1,000 unrestricted cash prize and international recognition.
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Get matched →- Deadline
- 45 days left
- Entry fee
- $25
- Award
- $1,000
About
Overview
The Meridian Award is an independent international award granting a $1,000 unrestricted cash prize to one contemporary artist working in any medium. The award supports independent, self-directed contemporary practices and welcomes submissions from artists worldwide. The Meridian Award is committed to recognizing and supporting artists whose work demonstrates originality, clarity, and a distinct voice within the contemporary art landscape.
The Prize
The $1,000 prize is fully unrestricted and may be used to support studio time, materials, research, or personal sustainability. Beyond financial support, the award offers international visibility through a featured artist interview and dedicated promotion across the Meridian Award platform.
Selection
Each award cycle recognizes one winner and two finalists. All three selected artists will be featured through an online interview on the Meridian Award website and Instagram platform. Only the winner receives the $1,000 unrestricted cash prize; finalists are recognized through publication and promotion.
Key Dates
- Early Bird Deadline: August 5, 2026 ($15 fee)
- Final Deadline: October 15, 2026 ($25 fee)
Eligibility
Open to contemporary artists working in any medium worldwide.
How to Apply
- Visit www.meridianaward.com
- Instagram: @meridianaward
- Award
- $1,000 unrestricted cash prize
- Entry fee
- Early Bird: $15 (deadline August 5, 2026); Standard: $25 (deadline October 15, 2026)
- Theme
- Award/Fellowship - Painting, Photography, Sculpture, Printmaking, All Visual Arts
- Eligibility
- Open to contemporary artists working in any medium worldwide.
- Audience
- Open to contemporary artists worldwide
Every listing links to the organizer's official page. Always confirm deadlines, fees, and entry rules there before you apply.