The John Ruskin Prize returns for its ninth year, inviting artists, designers and makers from anywhere in the world to submit work responding to the theme Not for Present Delight.
Taking its title from the writings of John Ruskin, this year’s theme asks whether art must serve a purpose beyond itself, or whether it can exist simply for pleasure. It also considers what it means to create with an awareness of consequence in a time defined by environmental urgency and social inequality.
The prize is open to amateur and professional artists, designers and makers working across any 2D or 3D medium, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography, textiles, animation, digital art, performance, installation and mixed media.
Up to 80 selected works will be exhibited at Trinity Buoy Wharf in London. Four major prizes total £9,500:
1st Prize — £3,000
Alan Davidson Under 26 Prize — £1,000
Ruskin Mill Trust Prize — £3,000
Chelsea Arts Club Trust Prize — £2,500
International artists do not have to ship physical work if selected; they can choose to exhibit digitally instead.
