THE MANIFEST PRIZE: The 16th Annual Manifest Prize

About the Open Call

The 16th Annual Manifest Prize, now doubled to a $10,000 award, seeks exceptional original works of visual art, design, or high craftsmanship of any kind. This includes traditional and non-traditional visual arts genre and media such as video, photography, sculpture, installation, painting, drawing, printmaking, and furniture design. There are almost no restrictions on submissions, open to works of any media, genre, or size. The winning work will receive a $10,000 cash award and a four-week solo exhibit at Manifest's gallery, displayed along with juror and artist statements. Four runners-up will receive $250 each and be recognized in the Manifest Exhibition Annual publication. Works must have been completed within the past five years (2020-2025) and be available for exhibition from December 12, 2025, to January 9, 2026. The selection process involves a rigorous multi-member blind jury. Artists retain 70% commission on any sold work. All selected artists will receive a complimentary copy of the season's large-format hardcover retrospective publication. Works must arrive ready to install with professional-level presentation and craftsmanship. Artists are responsible for all shipping costs. Accepted works will be insured by Manifest while on gallery premises.

What is Offered

$10,000 Award, solo exhibition of winning work, recognition in Manifest Exhibition Annual, $250 cash awards for four runners-up, complimentary copy of the season's hardcover retrospective publication.

Requirements

Works must have been completed within the past five years (2020-2025) and be available for exhibition from December 12, 2025, to January 9, 2026. Works must be exceptional original visual art, design, or high craftsmanship. Must be capable of being exhibited in one of Manifest's five galleries. Arrive ready to install, exhibiting good craftsmanship, and professional-level presentation. Digital images must meet specifications (JPEG, no smaller than 1000 pixels in any direction, 72 dpi, named correctly). Video submissions require a viewable online link and a representative JPEG image. Artists are responsible for all shipping costs.

How to Apply

Submit via the online entry form available at https://www.manifestgallery.org/one/entry/index.html. Upload image files using the Dropbox button provided after entry form submission. Video links should be provided on the entry form. Entry fee can be paid by U.S. check or money order mailed to Manifest Creative Research Gallery, P.O. Box 6218, Cincinnati, OH 45206, or by credit card via PayPal link provided after online submission. Ensure files are named correctly as per instructions (e.g., Lastname_Firstname_1.jpg).