How do I enter?

In the first instance, all artists are required to submit their works as images or videos as part of the online application process through our submission platform. You can access our platform from our Enter Page.

If you are a shortlisted artist, you will then be notified and we will require your works to be shipped for the exhibition. Please do not send your physical artwork to us unless we ask you to do so. 

Can I enter more than once?

Yes, you may enter as many times as you wish, providing you purchase an entry fee for each submission. Each entry fee allows you to submit two works.

Can I submit work that has been previously published?

Yes, we accept works previously published and exhibited elsewhere. Please include information on previous publications and exhibitions on your submission form. This will not affect the judging process. In the event that you are successful, it is good practice to credit previously published and exhibited works.

Do I need to enter pieces of a series separately?

No, a series can be submitted as one work. Please provide documentation of the series as a whole. For example, for each entry fee, you could submit 2 series of works.

How many images can be in a series?

There is no maximum number of images that can be included in a given series. You can only upload 5 files, however you can make a pdf of multiple images on one file.

Can I alter my entry once submitted?

Due to the high volume of entries, judging will begin before the deadline of 31 August. It is at the judges' discretion whether they re-review any updated work. If you wish to make a change to your entry, please email art-prize@aestheticamagazine.com 

Are there any size limitations?

The Aesthetica Art Prize can accept large pieces of artwork. There are no restrictions, however, if you are selected for exhibition, your work may need to adapt to fit the available space within the gallery.

Is there a theme?

The Aesthetica Art Prize is an open call for entries with no limitations on theme. You are welcome to submit work on any subject.

Who can enter the Art Prize?

The Aesthetica Art Prize is open to all artists working at any level from all over the World. There are no limitations on age, but we encourage current students and recent graduates to submit to the Emerging Art Prize. 

Which prize should I enter?

The Main Prize and Emerging Prize are open to all practitioners. You may enter the prize that you feel is the most relevant to you. If you have been a full or part-time student at anytime during the last 3 years, we would encourage you to select the Emerging Prize. However, if you would rather enter the Main Prize, then you are free to do so.

Will I retain Artwork / Intellectual rights?

Artwork Rights - You will retain the copyright to all work submitted to the Art Prize.

Intellectual Rights - Artists that enter their work into the Aesthetica Art Prize confirm that they hold all intellectual property rights. You agree to your works being used in any publicity materials - print or online. Artists will be credited where works are used.

I have submitted but not yet heard back. Have you received my entry?

One you have submitted you work, you will receive an automatic confirmation email. If you have not received confirmation, please check your email junk folder. If you haven't heard back  within 48 hours, please  contact us at  art-prize@aestheticamagazine.com 

How will the Art Prize be judged?

Our Judging Panel will select artworks based on a set of selection criteria. In total, up to 125 artists will be longlisted for the Art Prize Anthology, out of which a smaller selected will then be shortlisted and invited to participate in the Art Prize Exhibition. Two winners will be chosen, one from the Main Prize and one from the Emerging Prize. Announcements will be made at the Private View of the exhibition.

What is the judging criteria?

Based on the artworks submitted for competition, works will be judged based on the following elements of artistic expression:

• Originality and innovation of the depicted theme
• Composition and overall design
• Interpretation and the clarity of the theme
• Technical skill and presentation

When will the winners be announced?

Winners will be announced at the Private View of the Art Prize Exhibition in York, in Spring 2023.

What happens if I'm selected for the exhibition?

If you are selected for the exhibition, you will be asked to:
- Provide further information about your artwork
- Arrange shipping/delivery of your artwork to the exhibition in York, UK.

Artists selected for the exhibition will be responsible for all transportation (delivery and collection) and insurance costs of artworks. If you wish to attend the exhibition, please note that all travel and accommodation costs will not be covered by Aesthetica.  Once artworks are on display, they will be invigilated and exhibited in a secure location.

What is the Art Prize Anthology?

The Future Now: 100 Contemporary Artists is a dynamic guide to international art, including all longlisted and shortlisted artists from the Aesthetica Art Prize. If your work is selected, it will feature within the anthology.  The publication also features a collection of critical essays by influential art figures including curators and artists. Published in Spring, the anthology accompanies the exhibition and is distributed in UK galleries and online. It is organised into four categories: Photographic & Digital Art; Three Dimensional Design & Sculpture; Painting, Drawing & Mixed Media; Video, Installation & Performance.

What will the editorial in Aesthetica consist of?

The April / May issue of Aesthetica will include a feature on the Art Prize in which the winners will receive a mention and description of their selected work.

It says winners announced, but I've only just entered?

As the Art Prize process runs in annual cycles, we will be announcing the results for the current competition whilst entries for 2023 prize are open.

Can I receive feedback for my entry?

Due to the number of entries received, the judges are unable to offer any feedback on unsuccessful entries.

Can I sell my artwork before / during the exhibition?

The Aesthetica Art Prize is a non-selling exhibition. You may sell your work before or during the exhibition, as long as the work is still available to be exhibited for the duration of the event.

What happens if your artwork breaks during the exhibition?

The exhibition will have invigilators looking after your work, and it will be insured, however if your artwork breaks or malfunctions during the show, all artists are asked to provide troubleshooting guides and our technicians will attempt to repair the works. If this is not possible, the artist will be asked to repair or replace the works.

How will the exhibition respond to Covid-19 restrictions?

Some works may need to be adjusted for social distancing, to ensure the safety of all audiences. These changes may include replacing headphones with QR codes, which can be accessed via visitors' smartphones. If a lockdown occurs during the exhibition, we will get in touch with artists to discuss options.