May 27, 2026
The .ART domain registry is marking its 10th anniversary with the launch of the .ART Award, a new international initiative designed to recognize and support artists by highlighting the creative process behind their work. With more than $50,000 in prizes, the award invites artists from all backgrounds, geographies and disciplines to present not only their finished works, but also the ideas, methods and stories that shape their practice.
Unlike traditional art competitions, the .ART Award asks applicants to submit a .ART domain connected to a website, portfolio or social media profile. The initiative aims to encourage artists to build a lasting digital presence while documenting the full scope of their work.
Château du Fresne, the .ART Award 2026 Residency near Paris, seen from above // Courtesy of .ART Award
The award includes a $15,000 Grand Prize, alongside several career-development opportunities. Winners will also receive artist residencies at Château du Fresne in France and Anfitrion in Marbella, Spain, a major editorial feature in Whitewall Magazine and a premium .ART domain valued at $10,000.
An international panel of leading voices from across the art world will judge the competition. Jury members include Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Jerry Saltz, poet and artist Sasha Stiles, Artsy and Artnet executive Akanksha Ballaney, and representatives from institutions including the American Alliance of Museums, Museum of the Moving Image, Whitewall Magazine and the Center for Art Law. As Stiles puts it: “I’m fascinated by the inner workings of the artist’s studio, the layers of inspiration and influence and craft, the process behind an artwork, and I appreciate how the award.art initiative centers this aspect of creativity.”
Sasha Stiles: ‘A Blank Garden,’ 2025, NFT Paris // Courtesy of the artist
Founded in 2016 through an exclusive agreement with UK Creative Ideas Ltd and ICANN, .ART has grown into a global platform serving artists, museums, galleries, collectors and creative businesses. Today, the registry manages more than 700,000 domains across over 170 countries worldwide.
Application Info
award.art
Deadline: Nov. 1, 2026
