THE MANIFEST PRIZE - The 16th Annual Manifest Prize

About the Open Call

The Manifest Prize, now in its 16th year, has doubled its award to $10,000. It is open to works of any media, genre, or style, with no size restrictions beyond what can be displayed in the gallery. The selection process involves a multi-round blind jury. Submitted works must have been completed between 2020-2025 and be available for exhibition from early December 2025 through mid-January 2026. The winning work will be featured in a dedicated gallery space, and all selected works (winner and four finalists) will be documented in the Manifest Exhibition Annual publication. Artists retain 70% commission on sales. Works must be gallery-ready and professionally presented. The organization is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, and entry fees fund project-related expenses. All accepted works will be insured while on gallery premises.

What is Offered

$10,000 cash award for the main prize winner, and $250 for each of the four finalists. The main winner receives a solo exhibition of their selected work for four weeks and a free copy of the large-format hardcover Manifest Exhibition Annual publication. All selected artists are documented in the publication. Artists receive 70% commission on sales.

Requirements

Entries must represent exceptional original works of visual art, design, or high craftsmanship of any kind. Works must have been completed within the past five years (2020-2025). Works must be available for exhibition from December 12, 2025, to January 9, 2026. Accepted works must arrive ready to install, exhibit good craftsmanship, and demonstrate professional-level presentation. Digital images must meet specified file naming and sizing requirements (high quality JPEG, no smaller than 1000 pixels in any direction, 72 dpi). Video entries require a viewable online link and a representative jpeg still image. Applicants agree to make their work available and ship/deliver it to the gallery if selected.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete the online entry form available at https://www.manifestgallery.org/one/entry/index.html. Digital images/files must be uploaded using the Dropbox button provided after entry form submission, or via the link in the emailed copy of the form. Image files must be named with the artist's last name, first name, and entry number (e.g., Jones_Mike_1.jpg). Detail images should include 'detail' in the filename. Video submissions require a link to a viewable online copy and a representative jpeg image. Entry fees can be paid via U.S. check or money order, or by credit card via PayPal through the link provided after online submission. Checks should be postmarked by the deadline and mailed to Manifest Creative Research Gallery, P.O. Box 6218, Cincinnati, OH 45206.