1. As all artists know, art competitions are a really great way to announce your presence in the art world. Applying to the VAO gives you the chance to showcase yourself and make connections with art enthusiasts, critics, and purchasers alike.

2. The VAO offers a fun, constructive and professional environment in which to learn, to be inspired by other artists and build your own skills and self-confidence.

3. As each round of judging passes, your work will be promoted across our social media and website as well as the opportunity to be featured in the regional and national press, opening your work to a greater audience.

4. You will have the chance to win not only a cash prize but also a commercial mentoring package to further develop your work and career as an artist and a spot at next year’s exhibition.

Phase 3 is now open for applications.

Categories for submissions are:

Painting & Mixed Media & Printmaking

Photography/ Digital Art

Drawing &Illustration

Sculpture

Drawing Young Artist (16-24 years old)

VAO24 PRIZE FUND £10,000:

Overall Winner Receives:

£2,000 Cash Prize

Certificate of Achievement

Premium Annual Membership with the Visual Artists Association

Annual Mentorship Programme

Momentum Programme

Solo Show/Art Exhibition in London

Art Voucher or Art Supplies

All Category Winners Receives:

£250 Cash Prize

Premium Annual Membership with the Visual Artists Association

Art Exhibition of Finalists in London

Additional Online Promotion

Certificate of Achievement

All Finalists will be awarded:​

Additional Online Promotion

Certificate of Achievement​

ALL SUBMISSIONS will receive promotion on social media and email coverage to 60,000, plus an invitation to the annual show.

£20 for 1st submission and £10 per additional artwork, totalling a maximum of £60. Young Artists under the age of 24 pay £15 for 1st submission and £10 per additional artwork, totalling a maximum of £55 for 5 artworks entered.

Stage 1: Longlisted Artists Announced – July 2024

Stage 2: Shortlisted Artists Announced – August 2024

Stage 3: Finalists Announced – September 2024

https://www.visualartopen.com/