Edition Two: Materiality.

BDR Group is offering a Purchase Award of up to £1,000, directly investing in the work of one selected artist and recognising the value of their practice through acquisition and financial support.

BDR Group is a privately owned, family-run business with over three decades of experience delivering forward-thinking telecommunications and IT solutions. Led by an experienced Directorate and Executive Board, the company combines technical expertise with strategic insight to support modern businesses across the UK. Specialising in cloud phone systems, high-performance connectivity, cutting-edge IT hardware, managed IT services and comprehensive cyber security solutions, BDR Group provides robust and scalable infrastructure tailored to the evolving demands of contemporary organisations. Their approach is grounded in reliability, innovation and long-term partnership, ensuring clients are equipped with the tools and systems required to operate securely and efficiently. 

Through the Purchase Award, BDR Group extends its commitment to investment and growth beyond the technology sector, directly supporting artistic practice. The selected artist will benefit from meaningful financial backing, enabling them to further develop their work with greater stability and confidence while expanding their professional trajectory.

Bainbridge Print Studios is offering a one-month residency, providing one selected artist with dedicated access to professional print facilities and an inspiring studio environment in South London.

Founded by printmaker Lucy Bainbridge, Bainbridge Print Rooms provides professional open-access facilities for screenprint, relief and intaglio processes. Alongside fully equipped print rooms, the organisation offers artist studios, desk spaces and a dynamic programme of workshops led by practising artists and designers.  Operating two open-access studios in Vauxhall and Croydon, South London, Bainbridge Print Studios fosters a supportive and professionally driven environment for those working within contemporary print and design. The organisation is committed to nurturing technical excellence while encouraging collaboration, experimentation and a strong sense of creative community. 

Through this Residency Award, the selected artist will gain valuable access to specialist print facilities and an engaged network of practitioners. This opportunity will enable them to expand their technical knowledge, deepen their material exploration and further develop their practice within a structured and supportive studio setting.

Daler-Rowney is generously awarding one selected artist a £150 voucher to invest in professional-grade materials, supporting the continued development and refinement of their practice.

With a heritage spanning over 240 years, Daler-Rowney is one of the UK’s most established and respected manufacturers of fine art materials. Founded in 1783 as a pigment and perfume maker, the company has evolved into an internationally recognised producer of artist supplies, with colour and pigment expertise remaining at the heart of its identity.  From paints, brushes and surfaces to accessories and studio equipment, Daler-Rowney offers a comprehensive range of materials designed to support artists at every stage of their practice. Operating from its headquarters and manufacturing facility in Bracknell, Berkshire since 1967, the company continues to invest in research, development and innovation while maintaining a commitment to quality, accessibility and inclusivity. 

Through the Voucher Award, Daler-Rowney directly supports the material foundations of artistic practice. The selected artist will receive professional-grade resources to further experiment, refine and expand their work, strengthening both the technical and conceptual development of their practice.

Hippo Screenprinters will collaborate with one selected artist to produce a professionally printed edition of 20, A3, 3-colour screenprints, expanding their practice through specialist screenprinting expertise and technical guidance.

Hippo Screenprinters is a specialist fine art screenprinting studio based in Essex, led by partners Lynne Blackburn and Ian Bailey. Working closely with artists, galleries and publishers, the studio produces exceptional hand-pulled screenprint editions that feature in national and international exhibitions and collections. Hippo Screenprinters specialises in multi-layered screenprints created from original artworks, digital scans or photographs, and frequently collaborates directly with artists to develop hand-painted or hand-drawn layers tailored to each project. In addition to traditional screenprinting, the studio produces archival giclée prints on paper or canvas, with the option to incorporate screenprinted elements, varnish, gold leaf or diamond dust for added depth and finish. 

Through the Edition Award, the selected artist will gain the opportunity to work professionally with an established print studio, developing a high-quality edition that expands both the technical and material scope of their practice.

Hive Artists CIC is offering one selected artist a One-Month Solo Exhibition within their Bolton-based gallery, providing a professionally supported platform to present a dedicated body of work.

Established in 2022, Hive Artists CIC supports the development of artists at all stages of their careers while creating meaningful opportunities for communities to engage with high-quality contemporary visual art in accessible spaces across Bolton. The organisation works in partnership with the University of Bolton, local schools and colleges, Museum and Library Services, and a range of community groups, fostering collaboration across education and the wider cultural sector. Through strong local media links and the use of film and photography to document exhibitions, Hive Artists CIC ensures artists’ work reaches broader and more diverse audiences. The gallery programme embraces a wide spectrum of visual art, from embroidery and printed textiles to sculpture and ceramics.

Through the Solo Exhibition Award, the selected artist will present a dedicated body of work within a professionally supported gallery setting. This opportunity offers significant regional visibility, curatorial support and the space to fully articulate and expand their practice within an engaged and community-focused arts environment.

Ironbridge Fine Arts & Printmakers is awarding two selected artists a one-day workshop with master printmaker Jenny Gunning, offering specialist technical guidance within a professional studio setting.

Ironbridge Fine Arts & Printmakers is a family-run gallery and specialist printmaking studio, renowned for designing and manufacturing Gunning etching presses since 1980. With a long-standing commitment to technical excellence, the organisation supports artists worldwide through high-quality printmaking equipment and expertise. Alongside press manufacturing, Ironbridge Fine Arts offers one-to-one printmaking workshops, GCF-accredited framing services and a carefully curated gallery programme. The gallery hosts an annual Printmaking Open, showcasing exceptional talent from across the UK. Rooted in tradition while embracing innovation, the organisation is dedicated to nurturing creativity and providing a welcoming environment where both art and technique can flourish. 

Through the Ironbridge Award for Creative Excellence, two selected artists will participate in an intensive one-day workshop with master printmaker Jenny Gunning. This opportunity offers focused technical development, direct mentorship and the chance to refine practical skills within a specialist studio environment, strengthening both confidence and craftsmanship within their practice.

Ironbridge Fine Arts & Printmakers is generously awarding one selected artist a £150 voucher to invest in professional-grade materials, supporting the continued development and refinement of their practice.

Ironbridge Fine Arts & Printmakers is a family-run gallery and specialist printmaking studio, renowned for designing and manufacturing Gunning etching presses since 1980. With a long-standing commitment to technical excellence, the organisation supports artists worldwide through high-quality printmaking equipment and expertise. Alongside press manufacturing, Ironbridge Fine Arts offers one-to-one printmaking workshops, GCF-accredited framing services and a carefully curated gallery programme. The gallery hosts an annual Printmaking Open, showcasing exceptional talent from across the UK. Rooted in tradition while embracing innovation, the organisation is dedicated to nurturing creativity and providing a welcoming environment where both art and technique can flourish. 

Ironbridge Fine Arts is awarding one selected artist a £150 materials voucher, directly supporting the material foundations of their work. This financial contribution enables further experimentation and development, reinforcing the essential relationship between technique, process and artistic growth.

John Purcell Paper is awarding one selected artist a £150 paper voucher, supporting the continued material development of their practice.

John Purcell Paper has been supplying fine art paper to artists and printmakers for over 35 years, building a reputation for specialist knowledge and carefully sourced materials. Working from their South London warehouse, the company stocks handmade and cylinder mould-made papers produced by some of Europe’s most respected mills. With extensive expertise across traditional and contemporary processes, John Purcell Paper supplies papers suitable for etching, lithography and screenprint, as well as fine book printing techniques including letterpress, wood engraving and linocut. Their range also supports drawing, painting, digital printing and alternative photographic processes, ensuring artists have access to materials that meet the technical and conceptual demands of their practice.

Through this award, the selected artist will receive a £150 paper voucher, directly supporting the material foundation of their work. This investment enables further experimentation and refinement, reinforcing the critical role that paper plays in both process and presentation.

Kraft Metals Ltd is awarding one selected artist £500 worth of mirror polished copper plates, with a 10% discount extended to all exhibiting artists for three months following the exhibition.

Founded in 2022, Kraft Metals Ltd draws on the legacy of its parent company, Metals Sheets Ltd, which has delivered excellence in sheet metal supply and custom fabrication for over 20 years. Building on this foundation, Kraft Metals specialises in high-quality copper, brass and zinc, offering a wide range of finishes and grades suited to both industrial and creative applications. Working with fabricators, architects, designers, printmakers and artists, the company bridges technical precision with material innovation. Based in the North West of England, Kraft Metals supplies specialist metals across the UK and beyond, supporting projects that span architecture, design and fine art practice.

Through their award, one selected artist will receive £500 worth of mirror polished copper plates. This substantial material investment enables ambitious experimentation with surface, engraving and print processes, strengthening the technical scope and material depth of their practice.

In addition, Kraft Metals Ltd is extending a 10% discount to all exhibiting artists for three months following the exhibition, further supporting continued material exploration beyond the award itself.

Lara Bowen Contemporary is awarding one selected artist three months of dedicated mentoring, offering strategic guidance and personalised professional development.

Lara Bowen Contemporary is a values-driven gallery dedicated to supporting early to mid-career artists through meaningful representation, mentoring and long-term collaboration. Established in 2000 and based in the creative hub of Brighton & Hove, the gallery is built on principles of integrity, authenticity and creative dialogue. With a strong emphasis on bold, emotionally resonant work, Lara Bowen Contemporary champions artists whose practices reflect both personal vision and wider cultural narratives. Rooted in extensive experience and a deep belief in the transformative power of art, the gallery supports artists at pivotal stages in their careers, offering not only visibility but sustained professional partnership. 

Through this award, one selected artist will receive three months of dedicated mentoring with Lara Bowen Contemporary. This focused period of guidance offers strategic insight, professional development and personalised support, helping the artist refine their positioning, strengthen their practice and navigate the next stage of their career with clarity and confidence.

Leicester Print Workshop is awarding one selected artist a £100 voucher, providing access to specialist print facilities, studio resources and workshops.

Leicester Print Workshop is recognised as the Midlands’ centre of excellence for fine art printmaking, championing the continued vitality and evolution of contemporary print practice. Committed to nurturing talent and supporting creative practitioners, the organisation provides a dynamic environment in which artists can develop technical skill and realise ambitious projects. Housed within a RIBA award-winning building, the workshop offers a large open-access studio equipped with specialist facilities for stone and plate lithography, etching, engraving, relief, letterpress and screen-printing, alongside dedicated artist studio spaces . Through its commitment to professional development and material excellence, Leicester Print Workshop plays a significant role in sustaining printmaking as a thriving contemporary art form.

Through this award, one selected artist will receive a £100 voucher to use at Leicester Print Workshop. This practical support enables access to specialist facilities and technical resources, encouraging further experimentation and development within a professional printmaking environment.

Little Buckland Gallery is awarding one selected artist one year of representation and a dedicated solo exhibition at their gallery in the Cotswolds.

Little Buckland Gallery is owned and curated by artist Arabella Kiszely, presenting exhibitions that champion abstract and semi-abstract contemporary artists whose work resonates with her own artistic sensibility. With a curatorial focus rooted in intuition, depth and emotional presence, the gallery has built a strong reputation for thoughtful and distinctive programming. Over the past fifteen years, Little Buckland Gallery has evolved into a respected cultural destination within the Cotswolds. The gallery attracts dedicated collectors and artists alike, many drawn by its commitment to work that reveals what lies beneath the visible surface — celebrating nuance, materiality and artistic integrity.

Through this award, one selected artist will receive one year of representation with Little Buckland Gallery, alongside a dedicated solo exhibition at the gallery in the Cotswolds. This significant opportunity offers sustained curatorial support, professional advocacy and the chance to present a focused body of work within an established and carefully curated gallery setting.

Little Buckland Gallery is awarding five selected artists (one being the newly represented and solo show award winner) a guest place in a curated group exhibition at the gallery in the Cotswolds.

Little Buckland Gallery is owned and curated by artist Arabella Kiszely, presenting exhibitions that champion abstract and semi-abstract contemporary artists whose work resonates with her own artistic sensibility. With a curatorial focus rooted in intuition, depth and emotional presence, the gallery has built a strong reputation for thoughtful and distinctive programming. Over the past fifteen years, Little Buckland Gallery has evolved into a respected cultural destination within the Cotswolds. The gallery attracts dedicated collectors and artists alike, many drawn by its commitment to work that reveals what lies beneath the visible surface — celebrating nuance, materiality and artistic integrity.

In addition to the newly represented and solo show award winner, a further four selected artists will be invited to exhibit in a curated group exhibition at Little Buckland Gallery in 2027. This opportunity provides professional exhibition experience within a respected regional gallery context, expanding visibility and connection to new audiences.

LOOP Artists is awarding one selected artist a guest place in a curated London exhibition in 2027 (location TBC), offering professional exhibition experience within an established printmaking network.

LOOP Artists in Print is an informal co-operative founded in 2005 by graduates of Camberwell School of Art. Celebrating the full spectrum of printmaking — from traditional etching and woodcut to experimental digital methods — the group brings together alumni and emerging practitioners through annual exhibitions and collaborative initiatives. Run entirely by volunteers, LOOP operates on a not-for-profit basis, sharing responsibilities and costs collectively. Over the past two decades, the organisation has built strong partnerships with institutions including Camberwell College of the Arts and Bankside Gallery (Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers), offering graduate prizes and sustained professional exposure. Its expanding network includes print studio owners, educators and established printmakers, reinforcing its position within the contemporary print community.

Through their award, one selected artist will receive a guest place in a curated exhibition in London in 2027 (location to be confirmed). This opportunity offers professional exhibition experience within a respected printmaking network, expanding visibility and peer engagement within the UK print sector.

No Place Art is awarding one selected artist the opportunity to join the 2027 Curatorial Team.

No Place Art is an artist-led initiative committed to connecting striving artists with meaningful opportunities, professional development and long-term visibility. Through curated exhibitions, partnerships and sector collaboration, the platform supports artists at pivotal stages in their careers while fostering a generous and forward-thinking creative community. 

One selected artist will be invited to join the 2027 Curatorial Team, contributing to the development and realisation of a future No Place Art exhibition. This award offers insight into curatorial processes, programming decisions and exhibition strategy, expanding the artist’s professional perspective beyond studio practice.

No Place Art is awarding one selected artist a guest place in our Edition Three, 2027 exhibition in London

No Place Art is an artist-led initiative committed to connecting striving artists with meaningful opportunities, professional development and long-term visibility. Through curated exhibitions, partnerships and sector collaboration, the platform supports artists at pivotal stages in their careers while fostering a generous and forward-thinking creative community.

One selected artist will receive a guest place in our curated exhibition in 2027. This opportunity provides continued engagement with the platform beyond Edition Two, offering professional exhibition experience within No Place Art’s evolving programme and expanded visibility within its network of collectors, curators and collaborators.

No Place Art is awarding one selected artist the opportunity to join the 2027 Panel of Judges.

No Place Art is an artist-led initiative committed to connecting striving artists with meaningful opportunities, professional development and long-term visibility. Through curated exhibitions, partnerships and sector collaboration, the platform supports artists at pivotal stages in their careers while fostering a generous and forward-thinking creative community.

One selected artist will join the 2027 Panel of Judges, participating in the selection process for the next edition of No Place Art. This opportunity positions the artist within a decision-making role, recognising their critical voice and granting them influence within the platform’s future direction.

No Place Art is awarding one selected artist a Purchase Award of up to £1,000, recognising and directly investing in their practice.

No Place Art is an artist-led initiative committed to connecting striving artists with meaningful opportunities, professional development and long-term visibility. Through curated exhibitions, partnerships and sector collaboration, the platform supports artists at pivotal stages in their careers while fostering a generous and forward-thinking creative community.

Through the No Place Art Purchase Award, one selected artist’s work will be acquired for up to £1,000. This direct financial investment recognises the strength and significance of the artist’s practice, while reinforcing No Place Art’s commitment to tangible support and long-term advocacy.

People of Print is awarding one selected artist an Honorary Lifetime Membership, including a feature in Print Isn’t Dead Issue 8, Edition of 50 prints, print sales support and full membership benefits.

People of Print is a global platform dedicated to celebrating and elevating contemporary print and its related disciplines. Working with brands, companies and educational institutions, the organisation delivers innovative campaigns, media partnerships and events that champion the diversity and vitality of print culture. In addition to publishing titles such as Print Isn’t Dead and Posterzine, People of Print runs an online store and shares print-focused news and inspiration through its digital platforms. At the heart of the organisation is the Official People of Print Membership — a dynamic and internationally connected community that brings together independent printmakers, artists and large-scale print service providers. Their mission is to unite, support and amplify the evolving world of print.

One selected artist will receive an Honorary Lifetime Membership, including a feature in Print Isn’t Dead Issue 8, the opportunity to release a limited edition of 50 prints sold via People of Print, three annual online features and full membership benefits. This award offers sustained international visibility, editorial recognition and commercial support, positioning the artist within a globally engaged print network.
 

People of Print is awarding nine selected artists a One-year Official Membership (one in collaboration with Hippo Screenprinters), including annual online features and full membership benefits.

People of Print is a global platform dedicated to celebrating and elevating contemporary print and its related disciplines. Working with brands, companies and educational institutions, the organisation delivers innovative campaigns, media partnerships and events that champion the diversity and vitality of print culture. In addition to publishing titles such as Print Isn’t Dead and Posterzine, People of Print runs an online store and shares print-focused news and inspiration through its digital platforms. At the heart of the organisation is the Official People of Print Membership — a dynamic and internationally connected community that brings together independent printmakers, artists and large-scale print service providers. Their mission is to unite, support and amplify the evolving world of print.

Nine selected artists (one in collaboration with Hippo Screenprinters) will receive a one-year Official People of Print Membership, including three online features annually and full membership benefits. This award provides structured exposure, professional endorsement and access to a thriving international print community, supporting continued visibility and connection.

Starving Artists is awarding three selected artists a one-year subscription with quarterly mentoring and application support sessions.

Starving Artists is a Manchester-based platform dedicated to helping artists build sustainable and fulfilling careers. Founded on the belief that creative practice thrives when artists are supported strategically as well as creatively, the organisation provides access to awards, grants, residencies and commissions through a curated and regularly updated members’ platform. Run by artists who understand both the art world and the practical realities of sustaining a practice, Starving Artists offers structured mentoring and professional guidance designed to reduce administrative burden and allow artists to focus more time and energy in the studio. Their mission is simple: to help artists navigate opportunity with clarity, confidence and purpose. 

Three selected artists will receive a one-year Starving Artists subscription alongside quarterly mentoring and application support sessions. This structured guidance offers practical insight and accountability, helping artists strengthen their professional positioning and access new opportunities.

Starving Artists is awarding one selected artist a one-year subscription, quarterly mentoring and application support sessions, plus £50 towards entry fees.

Starving Artists is a Leeds-based platform dedicated to helping artists build sustainable and fulfilling careers. Founded on the belief that creative practice thrives when artists are supported strategically as well as creatively, the organisation provides access to awards, grants, residencies and commissions through a curated and regularly updated members’ platform. Run by artists who understand both the art world and the practical realities of sustaining a practice, Starving Artists offers structured mentoring and professional guidance designed to reduce administrative burden and allow artists to focus more time and energy in the studio. Their mission is simple: to help artists navigate opportunity with clarity, confidence and purpose.

One selected artist will receive a one-year Starving Artists subscription, quarterly mentoring and application support sessions, plus £50 towards application entry fees. This comprehensive package provides both strategic guidance and financial assistance, supporting the artist in identifying, preparing and submitting strong applications throughout the year.

The Stray Dog Residency Award offers one selected artist a part funded 4–10 day residency in Dorset, providing immersive studio time within a supportive artist-led environment. 3 artists will be selected for an interview.

The Stray Dog Residency is an artist-led initiative hosted by Gail Sagman in Dorset, offering a focused period of creative immersion within a shared yet supportive environment. Rooted in the belief that proximity to other practices can deepen concentration and empathy, the residency creates space for meaningful exchange alongside independent exploration. Residencies run for 4–10 days and take place at Gail’s Factory studio, where visiting artists are provided with a private room that can be adapted to suit their working needs. Artists may work within the private space or utilise a 10 x 15 ft board, large table or floor space, as well as outdoor areas. A small contribution of a few hours per day assisting Gail around the Factory is suggested in exchange for the stay.

Participants have access to kitchen facilities, local walks across fields, woods and cliffs, swims in the sea, and visits to nearby Lyme Regis and Bridport. Depending on preference, Gail may invite local artists for informal discussions, and in some instances collaborative exchanges naturally evolve. Select materials, including large steel sheets for painting, may also be available.

Through this award, one selected artist will receive a part funded 4–10 day residency in Dorset. This opportunity offers uninterrupted time, immersion and reflection — a chance to step ‘out of time’ and reconnect deeply with their practice within a generous and quietly energising setting.

Each judge will select one artist for a dedicated one-to-one professional conversation, offering tailored feedback and sector insight.

As part of Edition Two | Materiality, each member of the judging panel will select one artist for a dedicated one-to-one professional conversation. These individual sessions are designed to offer constructive feedback, critical insight and sector-specific guidance drawn from each judge’s experience and expertise. Bringing together voices from across the contemporary art landscape, the Judges’ Development Awards create space for meaningful dialogue beyond the exhibition itself.  Each selected artist will have the opportunity to discuss their practice in depth, explore future direction and gain tailored advice within a supportive and professional setting.

Through these awards, artists receive focused time and attention from established industry figures, strengthening confidence, clarity and strategic thinking at a pivotal moment in their development.

The Spotted Zebra is awarding one selected artist a dedicated Artist Interview Feature, offering international editorial exposure and considered professional visibility.

The Spotted Zebra is an independently run arts newsletter dedicated to exploring the minds of artists from around the world. Through in-depth interviews, the platform examines the meaning behind artists’ work and the processes that bring it to life, offering readers insight into both concept and craft. With a focus on thoughtful dialogue, The Spotted Zebra uncovers philosophies, routines and sources of inspiration, aiming to present the artist as fully as the artwork itself. By prioritising reflection and context, the publication creates space for deeper understanding and meaningful engagement with contemporary practice.

Through their award, one selected artist will receive a dedicated Artist Interview Feature, providing international editorial exposure and the opportunity to articulate their ideas, processes and perspectives to a global audience. This feature offers considered visibility, strengthening both professional profile and critical narrative around the artist’s work.

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WhiteNoise_Projects is collaborating with No Place Art to launch an open call for a 'young curator' to co-curate a London exhibition in early 2027. The selected curator will be announced at the 2026 NPA Awards Ceremony.

WhiteNoise_Projects is a collective of emerging and mid-career artists presenting thoughtfully curated work through a dynamic programme of solo and group exhibitions. Driven by a commitment to experimentation and dialogue, the group embraces alternative exhibition spaces that challenge conventional gallery models and expand access to contemporary practice. Responding to the evolving landscape of the art world, WhiteNoise_Projects seeks innovative ways to connect artists, curators and audiences, fostering independent and inclusive cultural conversations. In collaboration with No Place Art, WhiteNoise_Projects will launch an open call for an emerging curator to co-curate a London-based exhibition in early 2027. 

The selected curator will work directly with the WhiteNoise_Projects team, gaining hands-on curatorial experience within a professional exhibition framework. The winner will be invited to the No Place Art Client Night and formally announced during the 2026 Award Ceremony, placing them within NPA’s wider creative network.