Open Call for Foundwork Artist Prize 2023

by Olivia Ladanyi // July 18, 2023

Foundwork has announced the open call for its 2023 Foundwork Artist Prize, an annual juried award for emerging and mid-career artists. The international prize recognizes outstanding artists working in any media, awarding them with unrestricted $10,000 grants and juror studio visits. Foundwork’s fifth annual selection aims to provide a platform for contemporary artists to share their work with the global art community.

Dominique White (2022 Honoree): ‘Can We Be Known Without Being Hunted,’ 2022, kaolin clay, burnt mahogany, sisal, null sail, raffia, cast iron, forged iron, rust, damaged rope. 228 x 59 x 90 in // Courtesy of the artist and Foundwork

Each year, the jury honour at least one artist, and shortlist a further three standout applicants. Judges will be on the lookout for artists who demonstrate a critical engagement with, and make a distinctive contribution to, their chosen media. Honouree and shortlisted artists will also be invited for in-depth interviews as part of Foundwork’s ‘Dialogues’ programme, increasing public engagement with their practice. Last year’s honouree was Dominique White and shortlisted artists were Anna Perach, Junghun Kim and Chris Zhongtian Yuan.

Anna Perach (2022 Short List): ‘Seven Wives,’ 2020, axminster yarn & synthetic hair, beading, hemp rope and S-hooks, various sizes // Courtesy of the artist and Foundwork

Junghun Kim (2022 Short List): ‘Integrative Breathing workshop series,’ 2022, mixed layers // Courtesy of the artist and Foundwork

This year’s jury, which has just been announced, includes esteemed curators, gallerists and artists based in Los Angeles, Medellín, Miami and New York. Bringing a range of perspectives and experience to the 2023 jury are ICA Miami Artistic Director Alex Gartenfeld; Night Gallery founder Davida Nemeroff; artist Shinique Smith; MAMM Chief Curator Emiliano Valdés; and gallerist Nicola Vassell.

To be considered for the Foundwork Artist Prize, artists need to maintain a published profile throughout this year’s selection period, uploading at least six artworks and an artist statement to the Foundwork site. The selection process will take place in autumn 2023, after the September application deadline. Further instructions on eligibility and how to participate can be found in the Foundwork Artist Prize section on the FAQ page.

Chris Zhongtian Yuan (2022 Short List): ‘Close, Closer,’ 2021, single channel HD video, sound, color // Courtesy of the artist and Foundwork

Founded in 2017, Foundwork is a charitable organisation that supports access and recognition for artists, providing a platform for them to share their work with curators, gallerists and other prospective collaborators through ongoing programmes and artist profiles.