OPEN CALL: 2026 Incentive Prize for Art Critics

Contest accompanying the 58th AICA International Congress: Rennes, France, October 12–16, 2026
Theme: Art criticism and eco-socially engaged practices: new writing, new challenges?
CONTEST TIMELINE: JUNE 9–AUGUST 6 BY PARIS MIDNIGHT (CET)

Eligibility: Critics (commentators, curators, educators) writing from anywhere, newspapers, magazines, television, radio, internet

Languages: English, French or Spanish, Optional: French or Spanish with English translation

Entry fee: None

Cash Prizes: First Place EUR 2000; Second Place EUR 1000; Third Place EUR 500.

Jury Process: Aica International Awards Committee reads and ranks essays

Notification: The three winners will be notified by email. Winning essays will be posted on the AICA International website

Applicants should email an all-inclusive attachment using Microsoft Word (no PDF or Google Docs accepted)
2000–3000-word count essay (one essay per applicant) with bibliography;
Optional images should be labelled;
Mandatory: Short biography including nationality, workplace and email.

Email entries to all by Midnight (CET) August 6, 2026:
38144@alaska.net – mail@ruicepeda.com – sandrahitner@gmail.com – aica.office@gmail.com

FAQ

Essayists do not have to be AICA members.
Essays do not have to follow 2026 Congress theme.
Previously published essays, or essays sent to other contests, are eligible.
AICA International reserves the right to publish entries on its website or AICA/e-mag.