AWARD OVERVIEW

The Meridian Award is an independent international award granting a $1,000 unrestricted cash prize to one contemporary artist working in any medium. Founded independently in New York City, the award supports independent, self-directed contemporary practices and welcomes submissions from artists worldwide.

The Meridian Award is committed to recognizing and supporting artists whose work demonstrates originality, clarity, and a distinct voice within the contemporary art landscape.

The $1,000 prize is fully unrestricted. The selected artist may use the funds in whatever way most meaningfully supports their practice, whether for studio time, materials, research, or personal sustainability.

Artists are selected through an open call and juried review process. Portfolios are evaluated based on artistic merit, clarity of vision, coherence of the work presented, and the strength of a unique artistic perspective. There are no thematic requirements; the focus remains on the integrity and distinctiveness of the practice itself.

Beyond financial support, the award offers international visibility through a featured artist interview and dedicated promotion across the Meridian Award platform. The Meridian Award was established to provide meaningful financial support, professional recognition, and validation to artists who demonstrate a serious and sustained commitment to their work.

ELIGIBILITY

The Meridian Award is open to all artists aged 18 and over.

There are no restrictions based on nationality, location, education, or professional status.

AWARD STRUCTURE

Each award cycle will recognize one winner and two finalists.

All three selected artists will be invited to participate in an online interview, which will be featured on the Meridian Award website and official Instagram platform. Only the winner will receive the $1,000 unrestricted cash prize, while finalists are recognized through publication and promotion.

DISCIPLINES

The Meridian Award accepts submissions across a wide range of contemporary practices, including: Painting, drawing, digital art, sculpture, photography, print-based media, textile-based media, performance art, sound art, video art, and interdisciplinary practices.

At this time, short films, feature-length films are not eligible for consideration.

APPLICATION MATERIALS

Applicants are required to submit the following materials through the official application form:

• Name and Email
• Instagram Username (optional)
• Website (optional)
• Upload up to 5 total files (images and/or video links combined)

Videos: All submitted video and sound materials must not exceed two minutes in duration. We recommend providing links via Vimeo or YouTube. Please note that Dropbox and Google Drive links will not be accepted.
Images: Files must not exceed 2 MB each

• Artwork Description (Title, Medium, Size, Date)
• Artist Statement (250 words max)
• Biography (150 words max)

Applicants must submit all materials through the official application platform on this website. Any incomplete submissions or submissions that do not adhere to the specified file size, file type, and naming conventions may result in disqualification. Due to the volume of submissions, application fees are non-refundable. We encourage applicants to review their materials thoroughly prior to submitting.

Our inaugural award cycle begins on March 15, 2026 and ends on June 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST.

Early Bird Application Fee: $15 if submitted by April 15, 2026

Regular Application Fee: $25

Please find application form here Apply

REVIEW PROCESS & TIMELINE

Following the close of the application period, the Meridian Award Team will begin reviewing all submissions. Portfolios will be evaluated based on artistic excellence, clarity of vision, and the strength of a distinct contemporary practice.

The winner and two finalists will be announced in mid-July 2026. Official announcements will be made on our website and Instagram @meridianaward. Applicants are encouraged to check these platforms for updates. Due to volume, only selected artists will be contacted.