THE MANIFEST PRIZE - The 16th Annual Manifest Prize

About the Open Call

The Manifest Prize, now in its 16th annual iteration, has increased its award to $10,000, aiming to reward, showcase, celebrate, and document the most exceptional artwork being made today. This non-commercial public context project also provides honorariums for every exhibitor and nine $1,000 Grand Jury Awards each season, though the Manifest Prize is separate from these. The prize is open to works of any media, any genre/style, and any size, with no stylistic or media-based preference or bias in the blind jury process. Works submitted must have been completed within the past five years (2020-2025). The winning work must be available for exhibition from early December through mid-January (December 12, 2025 - January 9, 2026). While not required to be for sale, if offered, the artist receives 70% commission. In addition to the main prize, four runner-up works will receive $250 each and be formally recognized and documented in the Manifest Exhibition Annual publication. The $10,000 award-winning work will be unveiled at a ticketed preview event on December 11th. Eligibility is open to everyone, including artists who have previously submitted to or been included in Manifest projects. The selection process involves a complex two-part system with an anonymous 7-15+ person volunteer panel of professional and academic advisors. Works will be displayed in one of Manifest's five galleries. All accepted work must arrive ready to install, demonstrating professional-level presentation and craftsmanship. Artists are responsible for all shipping costs to and from the gallery. Works are insured by Manifest while on premises against theft, vandalism, and damage by patrons/staff, but not during shipping or due to material failure. The award winner will receive a free copy of the Manifest Exhibition Annual publication, a high-quality hardcover retrospective documenting the entire season.

What is Offered

A $10,000 cash prize to the winning artist, a four-week solo exhibition of the winning work, documentation in the Manifest Exhibition Annual publication (including a free copy for the winner), and $250 cash awards for four runner-up finalists.

Requirements

Works must be exceptional, original visual art, design, or high craftsmanship, completed within the past five years (2020-2025). Works must be available for exhibition from December 12, 2025, to January 9, 2026, and capable of being exhibited in Manifest's galleries. Accepted work must arrive gallery-ready, exhibiting professional-level presentation and craftsmanship, and must not differ significantly from entry images. Artists are responsible for all shipping costs.

How to Apply

Applicants must use the provided online ENTRY FORM. Digital images/files are accepted, and hi-res, print-quality images will be requested for accepted works. Images must be named with artist's last name, first name, and entry number (e.g., Jones_Mike_1.jpg). Detail images must include 'detail' in the filename (e.g., Jones_Mike_1detail1.jpg). Video-based or interactive entries require a link to a viewable online copy (e.g., YouTube, Vimeo, Dropbox) and a single representative JPEG image. The entry fee of $60 (or $45 for early bird) for up to five entries ($5 for each additional entry) must be paid by U.S. check/money order or credit card via PayPal. Instructions for image upload via a Dropbox button will be provided after entry form submission.