The Meridian Award

The Meridian Award is an independent international prize offering a $1,000 USD unrestricted cash award to one contemporary artist each cycle. Founded in New York City, it welcomes submissions from artists worldwide — regardless of nationality, location, education, or professional background — as long as they are aged 18 or over.

The prize money is fully unrestricted, meaning you can use it however best supports your practice: studio time, materials, research, or everyday sustainability. One winner and two finalists are selected each cycle. All three receive an online interview featured on the Meridian Award website and Instagram, while only the winner receives the cash prize.

Submissions are accepted across a wide range of contemporary practices including painting, drawing, digital art, sculpture, photography, print-based media, textile-based media, performance, sound art, video art, and interdisciplinary work. Short films and feature-length films are not eligible.

Artists are selected through a juried review process evaluating artistic merit, clarity of vision, and the coherence and distinctiveness of the practice presented. There are no thematic requirements.

To apply, you'll need to submit up to five images or video links (videos max two minutes), an artist statement (250 words max), a biography (150 words max), and artwork details. Videos should be linked via Vimeo or YouTube.

Fees

Early bird rate of $15 USD applies if submitted by 15 April 2026; the regular fee is $25 USD. Application fees are non-refundable.

The inaugural cycle opens 15 March 2026 and closes 15 June 2026. The winner and finalists will be announced in mid-July 2026.