The Santu Mofokeng Foundation has launched a new national photography prize celebrating the next generation of photographers in South Africa. Established in honour of acclaimed photographer Santu Mofokeng, the initiative seeks to recognise emerging practitioners whose work demonstrates thoughtful engagement with contemporary photography and to provide meaningful support to advance their careers.
The prize is designed to increase the visibility of independent photographers and invest in new voices shaping South Africa's photographic landscape.
Funding
The selected photographer will receive:
R100,000 cash prize
Editorial support
A professional artist profile
Opportunities for future exhibition presentation through Latitudes programmes
Scope and approach
The Foundation is looking for projects that demonstrate artistic excellence, originality, and a strong engagement with the photographic medium, reflecting the depth, sensitivity, and critical awareness that defined Santu Mofokeng's work.
Beyond financial support, the prize aims to provide professional recognition and create long-term opportunities for emerging photographers through editorial exposure and exhibition platforms.
Eligibility
Applications are open to emerging photographers living and working in South Africa.
Applicants must:
Work in contemporary photography
Be independent practitioners, artist groups, or collectives
Submit a cohesive body of 10–15 photographic works created within the past five years
Own the copyright and intellectual property rights to the submitted work
Photographers with exclusive commercial gallery representation are not eligible.
There are no restrictions based on age, nationality, or formal training, provided applicants are living and working in South Africa.
Application information
Deadline: 15 October 2026
For more information and to apply, click here.
Your funding experts
InterArts Funding offers its expertise to assist you in applying for grant opportunities (including this one), leveraging our extensive experience to enhance your chances of securing the grant. It is important to clarify that InterArts Funding is an independent entity and is not affiliated with any specific funding organisation. While we have a commendable track record of success, we cannot guarantee the approval of your application. Grant outcomes depend on various factors beyond our control.