XXI. Grafik-Triennale 2027 – International Printmaking Competition

Overview

XXI. Grafik-Triennale 2027 is the 21st edition of an international printmaking competition organized by Kunstverein zu Frechen e.V. in cooperation with the City of Frechen, Germany. The competition promotes contemporary international printmaking, with selected works exhibited in Frechen and reproduced in a bilingual (German/English) catalogue.

Eligibility

Open to professional artists worldwide. Works must fall within the printmaking category, including traditional techniques (woodcut, linocut, screen printing, etching, etc.) and new graphic techniques such as computer printing. Three-dimensional works and unique pieces are eligible if they function as printmaking. Works must have been created within the last three years (2023 or later).

Size & Format

• Flat works: sum of length + width under 250 cm
• Three-dimensional works: sum of length + width + height under 250 cm
• Works larger than 90 x 120 cm are hung unframed in the exhibition

Key Dates

• Online Application Window (Round 1): 15 July 2026 – 29 September 2026
• Original Artwork Submission Deadline (Round 2): 12 January 2027
• Exhibition: 18 June 2027 – 11 July 2027

Awards & Benefits

• First Prize: €3,000
• Second Prize: €2,000
• Third Prize: €1,500
• Sponsorship/Development Prize (for artists in training/education): €1,000
• Audience Prize (voted by exhibition visitors): €200
• Inclusion of selected works in bilingual exhibition catalogue
• Organizer covers framing costs for works up to 90 x 120 cm (second jury round)
• Organizer covers all exhibition costs including advertising, insurance, opening event, and presentation

Fees

€40 entry fee charged to artists who are shortlisted in Round 1 and submit original works to the second-round expert jury. The preliminary online application itself is free.

How to Apply

Selection takes place in two rounds. An internal jury first reviews all email/online applications to determine which artists advance to Round 2. A five-member expert jury then reviews original works to decide on inclusion in the exhibition/catalogue and to select prize winners. The expert jury includes representatives from Kunstverein zu Frechen e.V., art criticism, universities, museums, and practicing artists.

Sales Commission & Liability

If works are sold during the exhibition, Kunstverein charges a 30% commission on the sale. The organizer's liability for original works begins upon delivery and ends upon handover for return transport. Damaged works cannot be accepted.

Important Note

The call for entries is explicitly stated to be subject to the Triennale's financing being secured.