ACS Studio Prize 2026

About the Open Call

The prize is designed as a career-development opportunity rather than a residency, enabling artists to focus on their practice during a crucial transition period. Alongside the financial award, shortlisted artists may gain professional exposure, including exhibition opportunities through partnerships with organisations such as Gurr Johns. The programme emphasises supporting sustained artistic development and easing the move from education into professional practice.

Requirements

Applicants must be nationals of the UK, EEA, Australia, or New Zealand and either current art students about to graduate or graduates within the last four years. They must work in visual art forms such as painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, or related disciplines. Applications typically require a written statement, portfolio of work, and CV, and entrants must be aged 18 or over and submit original work they fully own the copyright to.