The Dover Prize is one of the UK’s most exciting opportunities for artists who want to take time to experiment, research, and develop new ideas. If you’re considering applying, here’s everything you need to know.
Who can apply?
The Dover Prize is open to UK-based individual artists, partnerships or small collectives working in any visual arts discipline, including:
- Painting
- Sculpture
- Ceramics
- Photography
- Printmaking
- Film
- Digital art
- Performance
- Installation
You must meet at least three of the following professional criteria, such as regularly exhibiting work, being part of an artist-led studio, or having your work purchased by a public collection.
- The artist is regularly making and exhibiting artwork
- The artist has received professional grants or awards
- The artist is involved in organising self-created professional opportunities, for example running an artist-led studio or project
- The artist has a degree in visual or applied arts at undergraduate and/or post-graduate level
- The artist has been commissioned by a public institution
- The artist’s work has been previously purchased by a public collection
- The artist’s work has been previously reviewed or featured in an art journal, magazine,
- newspaper or on-line curated platform
- The artist is represented by a gallery
- The artist has taken part in a recognised residency or artist placement scheme
What does The Dover Prize offer?
- A £10,000 bursary paid over two years
- Support to develop and share a new body of work
- A premiere presentation in Darlington, supported by local partners
- The opportunity to connect with communities and explore place-based themes
How to apply
Applications are submitted via an online application form. You’ll need to provide:
- A short written proposal
- Up to three JPEG images
- Links to any film, audio or digital works
Full details, including deadlines, are available on our Apply page.
