The 8th John Ruskin Prize is an internationally recognised, multi-disciplinary art prize that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and critical thought inspired by the values of John Ruskin, the leading 19th-century writer, art critic and social thinker. Organised by The Guild of St George and supported by Trinity Buoy Wharf, the prize invites artists, designers, and makers from across the world to respond to the theme “Patience in Looking, Truth in Making.” The competition is open to a wide range of media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, installation, photography, digital art, craft, and design, reflecting Ruskin’s own belief in the interconnectedness of art, nature, and society.
Since its inception in 2012, the John Ruskin Prize has established itself as a significant platform for emerging and established artists to showcase work that demonstrates both technical skill and thoughtful engagement with social, environmental, and cultural issues. Each edition of the prize has focused on a topical theme that resonates with Ruskin’s legacy and with contemporary audiences, positioning it as one of the UK’s most distinctive art awards. The 8th edition continues this tradition, encouraging participants to slow down, observe with care, and create with integrity in response to global challenges and timeless questions of beauty, truth, and meaning.
Shortlisted works will be exhibited at the renowned Trinity Buoy Wharf in London, offering artists not only the opportunity to gain exposure in a major cultural venue but also to engage with a wide audience of collectors, curators, critics, and the public. The exhibition and prize structure highlight the prize’s mission to nurture talent, reward originality, and celebrate work that demonstrates both craftsmanship and conceptual strength. In this way, the 8th John Ruskin Prize continues to champion the enduring relevance of Ruskin’s vision while supporting contemporary practitioners who embody patience, skill, and social conscience in their creative practice.
Entry fee: Standard: £25 for 1 artwork, £40 for 2, £50 for 3; Under-26: £20 / £25 / £38; International digital entry: £15 / £20 / £30 depending on how many artworks submitted.
Eligibility
Open to artists, designers and makers aged 18 or over of all nationalities (including collectives), who submit work made in the last 4 years and responding to the theme; under-26 category for younger entrants; international entries must use digital format.
Prize
The total prize fund is up to £9,500 across several awards: First Prize £3,000, the Alan Davidson Under 26 Prize £1,000, the Ruskin Mill Trust Prize £3,000 (for a beautifully crafted functional object), and the Chelsea Arts Club Trust Prize £2,500 for a mid-career artist. Winners are selected from a shortlist (up to around 50 artists) and announced at the private view / awards ceremony, with shortlisted work then exhibited at Trinity Buoy Wharf.
