KAF YOUNG ART PRIZE 2026 — an international competition for artists under 36 years of age with a prize of €12,000
Two things are particularly important for artists at the early stage of their careers: resources and visibility. The KAF Young Prize combines both of these elements: an institutional exhibition and three equal prizes of €12,000. Finalists who do not receive one of the main prizes are awarded an exhibition fee of €400.
This is not a local open call, but an institutional biennale format with an international jury and a two-stage selection system.
The competition is held every two years and is aimed at artists working in Europe. In 2026, applications will be accepted in three categories: painting, sculpture/object/installation, and digital art.
Who can apply
The competition is open to artists up to 36 years of age (born after 31 March 1990) who are currently residing in one of the European countries listed in the competition regulations — including Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Georgia and Moldova — regardless of citizenship.
Both authors with proven artistic practice and students and graduates of art universities can apply.
Works must have been created no earlier than 2024. Each participant may submit one to three works, but only in one selected category. The works must be independent, belong to the author and have no encumbrances by third parties.
All application materials and interviews with finalists are conducted in English.
Format and selection stages
The competition takes place in two stages. First, an international jury forms a shortlist, then selects the finalists (from 8 to 30 participants). Their works will be presented at the final exhibition in autumn 2026 at Krupa Art Foundation in Wrocław.
Three winners will be selected after viewing the original works and conducting online interviews.
Logistics and technical requirements
Finalists are required to deliver the originals of their works to the exhibition space. The organiser will reimburse transport costs up to €120 one way. Return transport is at the artist’s expense, with reimbursement of up to €120. Works are insured for the duration of the exhibition.
There are clear restrictions on size and weight (up to 200 × 100 × 100 cm and 80 kg for spatial works). Digital projects require a technical description and compliance with safety standards. Works must be fully completed and ready for display.
Copyright
Artists retain full economic copyright to their works. The organiser receives a non-exclusive licence for the purposes of conducting and promoting the competition. The Foundation also reserves the right of first negotiation in the event of a potential acquisition of the works.
Who is it particularly suitable for
This competition may be of particular interest to artists aged between 28 and 35 who already have established practices and are looking for an institutional exhibition in a European context. The format of three equal prizes reduces the “all or nothing” competition and creates a more sustainable model of support.
For artists from Central and Eastern Europe, it is also an opportunity to gain access to a broader European context without an entry fee and without the requirement of gallery representation.
The deadline for applications is 31 March 2026.
