THE MANIFEST PRIZE

About the Open Call

The 16th Annual Manifest Prize, now with an increased award of $10,000, is open to works of any media, genre, or style, with no size restrictions, completed between 2020 and 2025. The winning work will receive a $10,000 cash award, a four-week solo exhibition at Manifest Gallery from December 12, 2025, to January 9, 2026, and will be documented in the Manifest Exhibition Annual publication. Four finalist works will each receive $250 and also be recognized in the publication. The selection process involves a multi-round, blind jury composed of professional and academic advisors. Artists are responsible for all shipping costs to and from the gallery; work must arrive ready to install by December 6, 2025. Works are insured by Manifest while on gallery premises, but not during transit. If offered for sale, the gallery retains a 30% commission. High-quality digital images are required for submission, with specific file naming conventions. Video-based works require an online viewing link and a representative JPEG image. The entry fee is $60 for up to five entries, with $5 for each additional entry, applicable for submissions made after September 1, 2025, until the extended deadline of October 19, 2025. Fees are non-refundable and support the non-profit organization's project-related expenses. Submission implies agreement to make the work available for exhibition if selected.

What is Offered

$10,000 cash award, a four-week solo exhibition, inclusion in the Manifest Exhibition Annual publication, and for four finalists, a $250 cash award and publication.

Requirements

Works must have been completed within the past five years (2020-2025). The winning work must be available for exhibition from early December 2025 to mid-January 2026. All work must be gallery-ready, professionally presented, and demonstrate good craftsmanship. Submission constitutes agreement to provide the work if selected.

How to Apply

Submit via the online entry form at https://www.manifestgallery.org/one/entry/index.html. Upload digital image files using the provided Dropbox button after form submission. Video submissions require an online link and a representative JPEG image. Entry fees can be paid via PayPal or U.S. check to Manifest Creative Research Gallery, P.O. Box 6218, Cincinnati, OH 45206.