The 16th Annual Manifest Prize

About the Open Call

The Manifest Prize, now doubled to $10,000, recognizes that artists face greater challenges and aims to support artists alongside honorariums for every exhibitor and nine $1,000 Grand Jury Awards each season. The prize is open to works of ANY media, ANY genre/style, ANY size, with no stylistic or media-based preference or bias. There are almost no restrictions on submissions, and previous participants are welcome to re-apply. Works must have been completed within the past five years (2020-2025) and be available for exhibition from early December through mid-January. The winning work is not required to be for sale, but if offered, the artist receives 70% commission. The Manifest Prize is entirely separate from the season's Grand Jury Awards. The Manifest Board of Directors committee has also approved additional cash awards of $250 for each of the four runners-up, who will also be recognized and documented in the Manifest Exhibition Annual publication. The $10,000 award-winning work will be unveiled at the gallery on December 11th during a ticketed preview event. Manifest's mission is centered on championing the importance of mastery and quality in visual art. This project, now in its 22nd season, underscores the organization's strong desire to reward, showcase, celebrate, and document exceptional artwork in a tasteful non-commercial public context. The rigorous multi-member jury process ensures a blind selection from an anonymous panel of 7-15+ professional and academic advisors. The winning work will receive a four-week solo exhibit, and the artist will receive a free copy of the large-format hardcover Manifest Exhibition Annual publication.

What is Offered

$10,000 cash award, a four-week solo exhibition of the winning work, publication in the Manifest Exhibition Annual, and four runner-up awards of $250 each. The winner also receives a free copy of the hardcover publication.

Requirements

Works must have been completed within the past five years (2020-2025). The winning work must be available for exhibition from December 12, 2025, to January 9, 2026. Accepted works must arrive ready to install, exhibit good craftsmanship, and professional-level presentation. Digital images/files must be in high-quality JPEG format (minimum 1000 pixels, 72 dpi) with specific file-naming. Video submissions require a direct online link and a representative JPEG. Submission constitutes agreement to provide the work if selected.

How to Apply

Artists must submit entries via the online ENTRY FORM. Images must be uploaded using the provided Dropbox button after entry form submission, following specific file-naming conventions (e.g., Lastname_Firstname_1.jpg). Video/motion/interactive entries require a link to a viewable online copy (YouTube, Vimeo, Dropbox) and a single representative JPEG image. The entry fee ($60 for up to five entries) must be paid by U.S. check, money order, or credit card via PayPal using the link provided after form submission. All works must arrive ready to install and adhere to professional presentation standards.