The SAVAGE Emerging Artist Competition 2027 invites emerging artists from the African diaspora worldwide to submit original artwork exploring this year’s curatorial theme, UNLIMITED: What Becomes Possible When You Are Truly Free?
The competition celebrates emerging artists through cash prizes, exhibition opportunities, international exposure and connections with collectors, curators and institutions.
The 2027 theme invites artists to explore freedom, challenge conventions and imagine possibilities beyond the limits of history, circumstance and fear. Artists are encouraged to submit work reflecting their unique perspectives on freedom, their communities and the collective future.
Prizes
The competition offers cash awards of up to US$10,000.
Finalists will have the opportunity to exhibit their work at an Art Melanated exhibition, gain international recognition and build connections with art professionals and collectors.
Eligibility
The competition is open to emerging artists from the African diaspora, based anywhere in the world.
Applicants should be actively developing their professional artistic practice and building national or international recognition.
Applicants must:
Include 3–5 original artworks.
Respond to the theme UNLIMITED: What Becomes Possible When You Are Truly Free?
Be created in painting, drawing, mixed media, textile and fibre arts, or sculpture.
Be available for exhibition and sale if selected.
Photography, digital art, AI-generated artwork, video, installation and performance art are not eligible. Selected works must be prepared for exhibition, including professional framing for two-dimensional works where appropriate.
Application information
Deadline: 1 December 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.