Common questions about eligibility, submissions, fees, and the prize process — answered.
The secret art prize was born from a simple idea: to celebrate curiosity and creativity in contemporary visual art. Open to artists from around the world, the prize invites submissions across a wide range of media, including painting, photography, drawing, and mixed media. Each year, a panel of distinguished judges from the art world reviews the entries, looking not only for technical skill but for originality, emotional depth, and a willingness to take creative risks. The process is designed to be accessible and transparent, giving emerging and established artists alike an equal platform. Winners receive cash awards, exhibition opportunities, and valuable mentoring, helping to launch or accelerate their professional journey in the arts.
Eligibility for the secret art prize is intentionally broad, welcoming applicants of all ages, backgrounds, and nationalities. There are no restrictions based on formal training or previous exhibition history, meaning that self-taught artists and newcomers are just as welcome as those with extensive gallery experience. The only requirement is that submitted works are original and have been created within a reasonable timeframe prior to the application deadline. Artists may submit multiple pieces, though each entry is considered individually by the judging panel. This open-door policy has attracted a wonderfully diverse range of voices, from raw, emerging talent to seasoned practitioners seeking fresh recognition.
The submission process is straightforward and designed to remove unnecessary barriers. Artists upload digital images of their work along with a short artist statement and biography through the online application system. There is a modest administrative fee to cover the costs of reviewing and processing each entry, ensuring that the prize can remain sustainable and independent. Once submitted, all eligible entries are reviewed by the judging panel, who shortlist a selection of outstanding works. These shortlisted artists are notified directly and may be invited to provide additional information or high-resolution images for the final round of judging and potential exhibition.
Beyond the competition itself, the secret art prize builds a lasting community around contemporary art. Shortlisted and winning artists gain significant exposure through online galleries, social media features, and published interviews in art magazines and cultural outlets. The prize also organizes public exhibitions where finalists' works are displayed, offering artists direct engagement with collectors, curators, and the broader public. Alumni of the prize often go on to secure gallery representation, sell their work internationally, and participate in other prestigious art fairs and awards. For many, the experience provides not just a career boost but a meaningful connection to a global network of like-minded creators.
The prize is open to visual artists working in urban, surreal, and contemporary art. Categories include drawing, painting, print making, mixed media, and photography. Artists at any career stage are welcome to apply.
There is no upper age limit. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
Yes, but you should review the terms and conditions carefully. Curious Duke Gallery reserves the right to reject applications where conflicts of interest may arise.
You must supply your real name, artist name (if different), email address, website or portfolio link, an artist statement, and for each artwork: title, size, medium, date, and price.
Upload high-quality digital images of your work. Accepted formats and size limits are specified on the application form. Ensure images accurately represent the artwork.
You may submit multiple artworks. Each artwork requires a separate application and the corresponding fee.
The fee is £15.00 per artwork submitted. This fee is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application.
Payment is processed via PayPal. You will need to provide a PayPal email address during the application process.
No. The application fee is non-refundable under all circumstances.
Past prizes have included a £1000 cash award, exhibition space at Moniker Art Fair, full representation from Curious Duke Gallery, mentoring from Eleni Duke, and an artist profile in After Nyne Magazine. Prize details may vary by edition.
Entries are reviewed by a panel of industry professionals. The judging panel may change each year; details are published on the Judges page when available.
Applicants are notified after the judging period concludes. Timelines vary by edition — refer to the current year's prize announcement for specific dates.
Full terms and conditions are available on the Apply page. You must agree to them before submitting your application. Curious Duke Gallery reserves the right to reject any application at its discretion.
Winners enter into a representation agreement with Curious Duke Gallery. Specific arrangements regarding artwork sales, commissions, and exhibition logistics are outlined in the winner's contract.