Aesthetica Magazine has officially announced the opening of the 2026 Aesthetica Art Prize, inviting contemporary artists from around the world to submit their work for one of the most prestigious awards in the visual arts. Now in its 20th year, the prize serves as a vital platform for both established and emerging practitioners to showcase their work to a global audience of curators, gallerists, and critics.

The call for entries arrives as the 2025 Art Prize exhibition continues to draw crowds at the York Art Gallery. Artists working in any discipline, including Photography, Painting, Sculpture, Video, Installation, Digital Art, and Performance, are encouraged to apply.

While the competition remains open-themed, the jury is particularly interested in work that reflects upon our ever changing world. Previous finalists have addressed urgent global dialogues, from the climate crisis and the ethics of artificial intelligence to the exploration of migration and colonial legacies.

“The Aesthetica Art Prize is about more than just aesthetics; it is about the power of art to prompt conversation and challenge our perceptions,” said Cherie Federico, Director of the Art Prize and Editor of Aesthetica. “We are looking for innovation and creativity that redefines the parameters of contemporary practice.”

The Main Prize and Emerging Prize are open to all practitioners. You may enter the prize that you feel is the most relevant to you. If you have been a full or part-time student at any time during the last 3 years, we would encourage you to select the Emerging Prize. However, if you would rather enter the Main Prize, then you are free to do so.