Arte Laguna Prize 2026 is the 21st edition of the long-running international contemporary art competition organized by the Italian Cultural Association MoCA. Held in Venice, the prize invites artists from around the world to submit works across a wide range of disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, video art, performance, digital art, and design. With no fixed theme, the competition encourages creative freedom and welcomes diverse artistic approaches.

The competition culminates in a major finalists’ exhibition at the Arsenale Nord in Venice, scheduled for November 2026. Over its two decades of activity, Arte Laguna Prize has built a strong international network of curators, galleries, institutions, and partners, offering participants meaningful opportunities for visibility and professional development within the global art scene.

Beyond the exhibition, the prize provides access to a range of special awards, collaborations, and residencies that support artists’ careers. Participants also gain visibility through the Arte Laguna World platform, which functions as a digital space for promotion and connection. The open structure, broad categories, and international exposure make this competition a significant platform for both emerging and established contemporary artists.

Entry fee: €97.60 for artists under 35 and €122 for artists over 35 (VAT included), covering up to 5 works; additional works cost extra

Eligibility

Open to artists worldwide of all ages and backgrounds working in any contemporary art discipline, with no thematic restrictions.

Prize

The competition awards a €10,000 overall prize to the main winner and includes participation in a collective exhibition at the Arsenale Nord in Venice for selected finalists. Additional opportunities include special prizes such as artist residencies, collaborations with international partners, and other career-development initiatives offered through the Arte Laguna Prize network.