The Meridian Award: $1,000 Unrestricted Cash Prize for Contemporary Artists

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.

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.

Each award cycle recognizes one winner and two finalists. All three selected artists will be featured through an online interview on the Meridian Award website and Instagram platform. Only the winner receives the $1,000 unrestricted cash prize; finalists are recognized through publication and promotion.

Instagram: @meridianaward

Requirements

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

Application Instructions

Deadlines:

• Early bird application: August 5, 2026
• Final application: October 15, 2026

Application fees:

• Early bird application: $15
• Standard application: $25

Applicants must submit the following through the official application form:

• Name and email
• Instagram username (optional)
• Website (optional)
• Up to 5 total work samples (images and/or video links combined)
• Artwork details for each submission: title, medium, size, and year
• Artist statement (250 words max)
• Biography (150 words max)