The Peirson & Peirson Art Prize is a new national award celebrating the breadth and vitality of contemporary art. Open call to UK-based artists, aged 18+, the prize invites submissions in any style or tradition - Drawing, Painting & Printmaking.

We are excited to announce the launch of the Peirson & Peirson Contemporary Art Prize — a new opportunity for UK-based artists to showcase their creativity and gain recognition in the art world.

The prize is open to all artists aged 18 and over who are currently residing in the UK.

We are now inviting applications for a chance to be selected for inclusion in a curated group exhibition at our gallery.

This is a juried opportunity: all submissions will be carefully reviewed by our panel of judges, and selected artists will be invited to exhibit their work in our physical gallery space.

As one of the South West’s leading contemporary art galleries, we have been curating exhibitions since 2006 and are proud to represent a large and diverse stable of artists.

Our gallery is located in the leafy, vibrant suburb of Hyde Park, Plymouth, surrounded by independent boutiques, cafés, and beauticians.

We’re within walking distance of Plymouth city centre, The Box (the city’s award-winning museum and art gallery), and the railway station — with strong footfall and easy access via all main bus routes.

We host monthly exhibitions and private view events that consistently attract collectors, art enthusiasts, and buyers — generating strong visibility and sales for our exhibiting artists.

What Artists Receive:

• The opportunity to exhibit in a curated physical group show at our gallery

• Promotion via our Instagram and Facebook platforms

• Inclusion in our mailing list promotions, reaching over 1,000 clients and collectors

• Participation in a private view event with local press, buyers, and industry professionals

• The opportunity to sell work (the gallery retains a 40% commission on sales)

• Artist payment within one month of sales

Isabell Peirson has been a central figure in Plymouth’s artistic community since 1985, shaping the city’s cultural landscape for over 40 years.

As Creative Director of four galleries, she has championed emerging artists, facilitated exhibitions with internationally renowned figures, and played a key role in bringing ambitious projects to life.

She is passionate about supporting artistic talent and fostering creativity on a broader scale.

Her dedication, vision, and unwavering support have made a lasting impact — enriching the arts community and providing countless artists with opportunities to grow, exhibit, and thrive.

How to Apply:

Apply via Curatorspace by completing the 'Make a Submission' form.

Submission Guidelines:

• All entries must be original works of art created within the last two years

• Maximum size: 800 x 600mm (including frame)

• Artists may submit up to 3 pieces in JPEG format, accompanied by a short artist statement (max. 150 words)

• Mediums accepted: Drawing, Printmaking, Painting, and Collage

• Gallery commission is 40% of the on-wall price

• All selected works must be ready to hang and framed if necessary

• Prices submitted must include the gallery’s 40% commission

Entry Fee:

• £20 for one submission

• £40 for up to three submissions (non-refundable)

Important Dates:

• Entries open: 31st October 2025

• Submission deadline: 28th February 2026

• Exhibition selection notification: 1st April 2026

• Delivery deadline: Friday, 22nd May 2026

• Winner announcement (online): Friday, 5th June 2026

• Private View: Friday, 12th June, 4–7 pm

• Exhibition ends: Friday, 17th July 2026

Judging & Prizes:

A panel of distinguished judges will select the works to be exhibited and award the following prizes:

Judging Panel:

• Victoria Pomery OBE

• Richard Kenton Webb MA (RCA)

• Dr. Sarah Chapman

Prizes:

• 1st Prize – £1,500

• 2nd Prize – £500 (Sponsored by Stefan & Madeline Strobel)

• Emerging Young Artist Award – £250

• Legacy Award – £250

Venue:

Peirson & Peirson Contemporary Art Gallery
83 Hyde Park Road, Plymouth, PL3 4JN

If you have any questions, please contact us via the Contact Curator tab.

This is an incredible opportunity to showcase your work to a wider audience and compete for exciting prizes. We look forward to seeing your submissions and celebrating the incredible talent across the UK!

Links to our social media:

Website

Facebook 

Instagram

Linkedin

Disclaimer

While every effort will be made to ensure the safety and proper handling of all artworks submitted, Peirson & Peirson assumes no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any loss, theft, or damage to artwork, however caused, during transportation, handling, installation, exhibition, or storage. Artists are advised to arrange their own insurance coverage if desired. Submission of artwork constitutes acceptance of these terms.

After submitting your first artwork, you will then be directed to make a payment. Select the amount for the number of submissions you would like to make.

If this is more than one, you will then be able to make further submissions by submitting additional forms up to the number of artworks you have paid for.