The Manifest Prize: 16th Annual Award

About the Open Call

The Manifest Prize is the 16th annual award, offering a significant $10,000 prize for a single exceptional work of visual art. The opportunity is open to works of any media, genre, or size, with almost no restrictions on submissions, other than requiring works to 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, and will be displayed in one of Manifest's five galleries. A multi-round blind jury process involving 7-15+ professional and academic advisors determines the winner and four finalists. The four finalists (runners-up) will each receive an additional $250 cash award. All selected works will be recognized and documented in the high-quality hardcover Manifest Exhibition Annual publication. Manifest, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, emphasizes mastery and quality in visual art. The organization covers insurance for works on premises, but artists are responsible for shipping costs to and from the gallery. Professional-level presentation and craftsmanship are essential for eligibility. Works may be offered for sale, with the artist receiving 70% commission.

What is Offered

The primary award is $10,000 for one selected work, which will receive a solo exhibition and be documented in the Manifest Exhibition Annual publication. Four runners-up will each receive $250 cash awards and be included in the publication. The winner also receives a free copy of the hardcover annual book.

Requirements

Open to everyone. Works must be original, visual art, design, or high craftsmanship, completed within the past five years (2020-2025), and available for exhibition from early December 2025 through mid-January 2026. Works must be gallery-ready, professionally presented, and conform to image submission guidelines. Video submissions require online links to viewable content that does not require login or password. Submission constitutes a formal agreement to provide the work for exhibit should it be selected.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete the online entry form (link provided on the opportunity page) and upload digital images/files via the provided Dropbox link, which will also be emailed after form submission. Video submissions require a viewable online link and a single representative JPEG image. Entry fees can be paid via U.S. check or money order made payable to MANIFEST, or by credit card via PayPal using the link provided after submitting the entry form. Ensure all files are named correctly according to specified guidelines (e.g., Lastname_Firstname_1.jpg).