Sworders Emerging Artists Award

The Sworders Emerging Artists Award celebrates the next generation of creative talent. Generously supported by Sworders Fine Art Auctioneers, this award recognizes emerging artistic talent and provides young practitioners an opportunity to present their work within a professional exhibition context. Open to artists aged between 19 and 23 (on or before 14 June 2026) working in two-dimensional, wall-based media including painting, drawing, printmaking, and mixed media. Submissions should demonstrate originality, creativity, and a clear commitment to developing an artistic practice. Artists worldwide are welcome to apply. Prizes & Exhibition The judges will select a shortlist of works to be exhibited, from which one artist will be selected as the recipient of the award of approximately $1,575 NZD (£750). Shortlisted works will be exhibited as part of the Holt Art Projects annual exhibition programme in Holt and nearby Glandford, North Norfolk. The exhibition opens with an awards reception on Sunday 19 July 2026, followed by a private view on Monday 20 July. It will then be open daily from 10am to 5pm until Saturday 1 August. All works may be offered for sale (Holt Art Projects charges 28.2% commission on sales). Artwork Guidelines Works must measure no more than 1.25 metres in height or width (including frame) and be no greater than 40cm deep. The work must be supplied with D-rings suitable for hanging and have wire or cord attached. 2026 Judges • Guy Schooling: Chairman and Head of Art & Antiques at Fine Art Auctioneers Sworders. • Dulcie Humphrey: Gallery director, curator, and advocate for youth arts engagement (Fairhurst Gallery).