The 16th Annual Manifest Prize

About the Open Call

Manifest Gallery's annual prize aims to reward, showcase, celebrate, and document the most exceptional artwork being made today. The prize money was doubled to $10,000 in Manifest's 22nd season. The winning work will be unveiled at a ticketed preview event on December 11th and will be featured in one of the galleries from December 12, 2025, to January 9, 2026. The selection process involves a rigorous multi-member, blind jury process. The winning artist also receives a copy of the Manifest Exhibition Annual publication. Four finalist works will receive $250 each and be included in the publication. The prize is open to works of any media, any genre/style, and any size, provided they can be displayed in the gallery space. Works must have been completed within the past five years (2020-2025) and be available for the entire exhibition period. There are no restrictions on artists who have previously submitted or exhibited with Manifest. Manifest is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization supported by the Ohio Arts Council and individual contributions.

What is Offered

The winning artist receives a $10,000 cash award, a four-week solo exhibition of their work in one of Manifest's galleries, and inclusion in the Manifest Exhibition Annual publication. Four runner-up artists will each receive a $250 cash award and be recognized in the publication.

Requirements

Works must have been completed within the past five years (2020-2025) and be available for exhibition from early December 2025 to mid-January 2026. Submissions must represent exceptional original works of visual art, design, or high craftsmanship, capable of being exhibited in the gallery. Professional-level presentation and craftsmanship are mandatory. Accepted work must arrive ready to install. Digital images (JPEG, min 1000 pixels, 72 dpi) must be properly named and uploaded. Video entries require online viewing links and a representative JPEG.

How to Apply

Find the required entry form online (link provided). Images must be uploaded via the project Dropbox after entry form submission. Files should be named with artist's last name_first name_entry number. High-res, print-quality JPEG images (min 1000 pixels, 72 dpi) are required for accepted works. Video submissions require a link to viewable online content and a representative jpeg image. Entry fees can be paid by U.S. check, money order, or credit card via PayPal (using the link after form submission). Postal mail for check payment: Manifest Creative Research Gallery, 16th Annual MANIFEST PRIZE, P.O. Box 6218, Cincinnati, OH 45206.