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International Emerging Artist Award

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Participants are requested to submit an exhibition project which consists of a series of artwork using the media of their choice or a combination of media and support. The subject should express a contemporary issue or an original concept and should be preferably executed using innovative technique of production.

Categories:

  • International Emerging Artist Award
  • Emerging Emirati Artist Award

Prizes:

  • The winner of both categories:
    • one year representative contract with International Emerging Artist Award which include:
      • An International exhibition road show.
      • An Invitation to attend the prize-presentation in Dubai.
      • An Exclusive media feature in New York Times Style Magazine (T.Emirates)
      • Full profile feature on the IEAA website.
      • A Participation as a jury member for the 2013-2014 award edition.
  • 2nd and 3rd place from both categories:
    • One artwork display at the prize–presentation at FN Designs gallery in Dubai in March 2013.

You are allowed to enter UP TO 20 images. Ensure your series follows one theme only.

Image requirements: 72 DPI, RGB mode and jpeg format and no bigger than 800 KB for each image.

Judging criteria:

  • ORIGINALITY: Jury will look at the originality of the work and technique that is used to execute it, creativity and quality of execution.
  • CONTEMPORARY: Jury will judge if the work is exposing one current issue or the way a global or universal topic is treated with an original and contemporary view. This is a contemporary art competition.
  • CONCEPT: The concept should express a personal point of view, critical and sensitive, and should reflect the universe and imagination of the artist.
  • COHERENCE: Between the work and the concept, jury members will check if the series proposed is consistent with the concept exposed.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Frequently asked questions — Photography exhibition contests

Who can enter photography exhibition contests?

Most exhibition contests welcome photographers with cohesive bodies of work—emerging to mid-career artists. Some prioritize thematic series or conceptual depth; review curatorial guidelines to ensure your project aligns with the venue's vision.

Are exhibition contests free to enter?

Few are free; most charge $15–$50 per submission, with portfolio or series entries priced higher. Entry fees and early-bird discounts are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.

What prizes do exhibition contests offer?

Prizes emphasize physical or virtual presentation: gallery exhibition slots, group show inclusion, catalog features, press coverage, or artist talks. Cash awards are less common but may range $1,000–$5,000 for top honors.

How do I choose which exhibition contest to enter?

Match your series to the venue's curatorial focus and research past exhibitions for aesthetic alignment. Verify technical specs (print size, framing, digital format), review shipping or installation requirements, and carefully assess rights clauses—some exhibitions request display or promotional usage rights.

Frequently asked questions — International photography contests

Who can enter international photography contests?

Most international contests welcome photographers worldwide, regardless of nationality or experience level. Always verify eligibility on the official contest page—some restrict by age (18+), amateur/professional status, or thematic focus.

Are international photography contests free to enter?

Some are free; many charge $10–$50 per image, with early-bird discounts often available. Entry fees and deadline tiers are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.

What prizes do international photography contests offer?

Prizes range from cash awards ($500–$25,000) to gallery exhibitions, publication features, professional gear, and artist residencies. Prestigious awards like the Sony World Photography Awards or IPA carry significant industry recognition.

How do I choose which international contest to enter?

Align your strongest work with the contest theme and review past winners to gauge aesthetic preferences. Confirm technical specs (resolution, file format), check rights clauses carefully, and prioritize contests whose mission matches your artistic goals.

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