The Art Circle Award 2026 for Artists in the UAE with a Prize of AED 20,000
Applicant criteria
- 18 - 60
- Both
Opportunity criteria
Opportunity description
The Art Circle is accepting entries for the sixth edition of the TAC Award 2026, one of the art awards and competitions designed to support artists residing in the United Arab Emirates and provide them with the opportunity to showcase their work to a specialized art audience, while competing for a cash prize of AED 20,000.
The theme of the 2026 edition is “On Mending,” inviting artists to submit works that explore ideas of repair, rebuilding, and recovery after change, damage, or rupture. The theme may be approached from a personal, social, political, or environmental perspective, reflecting how individuals, communities, or environments can move beyond harm and reshape themselves in new ways.
The award falls within the field of visual arts and contemporary art competitions, accepting works in painting and mixed media. It seeks original artworks that present a clear and innovative artistic interpretation of the theme.
Participation offers more than just the cash prize. A number of artists will be selected as finalists, and their works will be exhibited in an art exhibition in Dubai, giving them the opportunity to strengthen their presence in the art scene and connect with artists, professionals, institutions, and art collectors.
Benefits
- A cash prize of AED 20,000 for the winner.
- Finalists’ artworks will be displayed in an art exhibition.
- Finalists will receive a certificate of participation.
- Promotion of selected artworks and artists through the organizer’s communication channels and social media platforms.
- The original winning artwork will become part of The Art Circle Collection.
- Limited-edition Giclée prints of the winning artwork will be produced.
- The opportunity to showcase the work and introduce the artist to art professionals, institutional directors, artists, and collectors through future activities and collaborations.
Eligibility criteria
- Be a UAE citizen or a resident of the United Arab Emirates.
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Hold a valid UAE ID.
- Submit an original artwork that aligns with the theme of the 2026 edition.
- The artwork must be in the field of painting or mixed media.
- Digital artworks are not accepted.
- Each side of the artwork must measure between 40 and 80 cm.
- Each artist may submit only one artwork.
- Previous winners of the TAC Award are not eligible to participate in the 2026 edition.
- Comply with all exhibition, ownership, and usage terms specified by the organizer.
Required Documents and Information
Applicants are required to prepare:
- A copy or image of a valid UAE ID.
- An Artist CV or professional biography.
- A high-resolution image of the artwork.
- The title of the artwork.
- The dimensions of the artwork.
- A brief description of the artwork not exceeding 1,200 characters.
- A Portfolio, if desired or if requested in the application form.