The RISE by Henley Festival Emerging Artist Prize is now open to visual artists and offers the opportunity to exhibit and sell in the RISE Gallery at Henley Festival 2026.
The competition is part of the Henley Festival’s charitable RISE programme, which supports emerging talent across the creative arts and gives artists the opportunity to showcase their work in a high-profile setting.
Emma Ellis, head of RISE programme development at Henley Festival, said: “After the success of last year’s inaugural RISE by Henley Festival Emerging Artist Prize, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to support rising talent in the visual arts space again this year.
“The RISE programme is truly at the heart of Henley Festival and drives us forward in everything we do.
“This prize, along with all other elements of the RISE programme, ensures that the most promising young creatives have the platforms they need to thrive in their chosen fields and thus ensures a bright future for the arts overall.”
The prize is open to emerging visual artists who have not yet established a reputation as an artist amongst art curators and buyers.
It offers financial recognition, with a first prize of £1,000 and two runner-up awards of £500.
Alongside the cash prizes, all three finalists will have the opportunity to exhibit and sell their work at the RISE Gallery during Henley Festival 2026, which will run from July 8 to 12.
The festival transforms the Thames riverside into an open-air gallery, featuring a diverse range of visual art including sculpture, prints, paintings, and more.
Last year’s winner, Raoul Orzabal, was awarded £1,000 for his intricately detailed landscapes and cityscapes.
Runners-up Curtis Chan and Susan Kellaway each received £500 for their vibrant paintings.
Katie Newman, managing director of David Messum Fine Art and a judge for the prize, said: “The opportunity for emerging artists to exhibit at Henley Festival’s RISE presents a unique platform to showcase their work, in a professional and creative environment, to a wide range of discerning art collectors.”
Submissions for the 2026 prize are now open and will close on March 31.
A shortlist will be announced on April 7, with the three finalists revealed on April 14.
For more information and entry details, visit henley-festival.co.uk/rise/emerging-artist-prize.