THE MANIFEST PRIZE

About the Open Call

The 16th Annual Manifest Prize is an international opportunity offering a $10,000 cash award to one artist for a single exceptional work of visual art, design, or high craftsmanship. The prize was recently doubled from $5,000, reflecting Manifest's commitment to supporting artists. Open to works of any media, genre, or size completed between 2020 and 2025, the winning piece will receive a four-week solo exhibition at Manifest's Cincinnati gallery. Four runner-up works will also be recognized with $250 cash awards and inclusion in the season-documenting Manifest Exhibition Annual publication. The selection process involves a rigorous multi-round blind jury composed of professional and academic advisors. Artists retain 70% commission on any sold work. Works must be gallery-ready and professionally presented. Accepted works will be insured by Manifest while on gallery premises. The exhibition runs from December 12, 2025, to January 9, 2026.

What is Offered

$10,000 cash award, a four-week solo exhibition, inclusion in the Manifest Exhibition Annual publication, and for runners-up, $250 cash awards and publication. Works are insured while on gallery premises.

Requirements

Open to everyone. Works must be exceptional original visual art, design, or high craftsmanship, completed within the past five years (2020-2025), and available for the exhibition period (December 12, 2025 - January 9, 2026). Works must be gallery-ready and exhibit professional-level presentation and craftsmanship. Video submissions require an online link and a representative JPEG image.

How to Apply

Submit via the online ENTRY FORM available at the provided link. Upload images using the Dropbox button after form submission. Entry fees can be paid via U.S. check/money order or credit card via PayPal.