Sept. 7, 2026
Foundwork has revealed the jury and the application details for the 2026 edition of its annual Artist Prize, inviting contemporary rising and mid-career artists working across all media to participate.
The artist selected as this year’s honoree will be awarded an unrestricted grant of $10,000 as well as individual studio visits with all five jury members. Their practice will also be explored through a long-form interview for Foundwork’s Dialogues program. Three additional artists will join the 2026 Short List and receive micro-grants of $1,000 each.
Antonia Kuo: ‘Water Lilies,’ 2024, unique photochemical paintings on silver gelatin paper, silver gelatin prints, powder-coated aluminum, patinated cast bronze and ceramic relief in aluminum frame (nine panels), 54 x 82 1/2 x 4 in. // Courtesy of the artist
Spanning five cities and a range of artistic and institutional perspectives, the jury comprises Stefan Benchoam, artist and co-founder of Proyectos Ultravioleta and NuMu in Guatemala City; François Ghebaly, Founder of François Ghebaly Gallery in Los Angeles; Manuela Moscoso, Executive and Artistic Director of the Center for Art, Research and Alliances (CARA) in New York; Gabi Ngcobo, Director of Kunstinstituut Melly in Rotterdam; and Berlin-based gallerist Esther Schipper, Founder of Esther Schipper Gallery.
Gozié Ojini: ‘Sound System 04,’ 2025, Roland SP404, Altered furniture, pots, glass, snare drum, tripods, speakers, subwoofer, transducer, amplifiers // Courtesy of the artist
The Prize is open to artists residing anywhere in the world, with limited exceptions. To be considered, artists must register and maintain a published profile on the Foundwork platform throughout the 2026 selection period, from September 25th at 5pm Pacific Time until December 31st, 2026 at 5pm Pacific Time. Profiles must include at least six artworks and an artist statement. Prize rules and FAQ can be found on Foundwork’s website.
Last year’s prize was awarded to Antonia Kuo, and Eugene Jung, Gozié Ojini and Umico Niwa were selected for the shortlist.
Umico Niwa: ‘Architectural Memory Series: Opium Dendrite,’ 2025, foraged organic matter, electroplated copper, 8 x 10 x 6 in. // Courtesy of the artist
Based in Los Angeles, Foundwork is a charitable organization supporting greater access and visibility for contemporary artists worldwide since 2017. Through its online platform and accompanying programs, the organization connects artists with curators, gallerists and other members of the international art community.
Application Info
foundwork.art
Deadline: Sept. 25, 2026; 5pm Pacific Time
