Young Generation Art Award 2027 — €10,000 international prize for emerging artists
This international art prize for artists under 35 serves not only as financial support but also as a gateway to the professional world of contemporary art.
The programme combines a cash prize with opportunities for publication and exhibition – three key elements that directly influence career development.
The prize is organised by Degussa Goldhandel in collaboration with Monopol magazine, which immediately sets the bar high in terms of visibility: it is not just a competition, but an opportunity to integrate into the media and institutional landscape of the European art market.
What the winner receives
Grand Prize will receive €10,000 and the opportunity to organise an international touring exhibition. However, even being shortlisted is a significant achievement: publication in Monopol magazine, participation in the exhibition, a fee of €3,000 and an additional €500 for organisational expenses.
This is an important point: the programme recognises not only the winner but also the finalists, which makes participation less ‘risky’ and more focused on professional growth.
Why this is important
The award format is built around visibility and integration into the art world. Unlike many competitions, there is a direct path: from submitting an application → to publication → to exhibition → to professional recognition.
For an artist, this means not just participation or victory, but a genuine entry onto the international stage — through curatorial selection, media coverage and institutional support.
Who can apply
Artists up to 35 years of age from any country can apply, working in the fields of visual arts, photography, video, media art and installation.
Formal education is not required, making the competition accessible to artists from all walks of life, including self-taught and independent creators.
It is important that you already have an established practice and an exhibition-ready portfolio.
How the selection process works
First, five artists are shortlisted. The decision is made by curators and representatives of various institutions, including the editor of Monopol and experts from Degussa.
Each finalist submits up to five works, which are then exhibited in the exhibition. At this stage, the artist already benefits from a professional exhibition and public recognition.
From these five participants, the jury selects one winner.
It is important to note that the jury’s decision is final and cannot be appealed.
Exhibition and Participation Format
The exhibition will take place in autumn 2026, under the curatorship of Degussa. All works must be available for the entire duration of the exhibition and remain on display until its conclusion.
The organiser will insure the works, reducing the risks for the artists.
It is also important to note that the sale of the works is only possible after the winner is announced (expected in February 2027), and the organiser has the right of first refusal.
How to apply
Applications must be sent by email and include a PDF portfolio (max. 8 MB), a short biography, an artist statement and contact information.
The main requirement is that the majority of works in the portfolio must be available for a potential exhibition.
It is important not simply to assemble a collection of works, but to demonstrate a coherent artistic practice and a clear developmental trajectory.
This is not a competition for a single work, but for artists with an established practice. It is important to demonstrate: consistency, a clear artistic position, and readiness for exhibition. You should also consider the logistics, potential sale of works, and legal terms of participation in advance.
The deadline for applications is 30 May 2026.
The exhibition will take place in autumn 2026.
The winner will be announced in February 2027.
