UK &
International
Emerging Artist
Awards
The Visual Art Open competition is a not-for-profit event open to both amateur and professional artists based in the UK and internationally. The aim is to give artists the ultimate platform to develop their passion and career in the arts sector. Finalists will benefit from exhibiting, selling and showcasing their work to art critics and buyers alike.
The VAO art competition is currently running in its eighth consecutive year and is open to both amateur and professional artists.
1. As all artists know, art competitions are a really great way to announce your presence in the art world. Applying to the VAO gives you the chance to showcase yourself and make connections with art enthusiasts, critics, and purchasers alike.
2. The VAO offers a fun, constructive and professional environment in which to learn, to be inspired by other artists and build your own skills and self-confidence.
3. As each round of judging passes, your work will be promoted across our social media and website as well as the opportunity to be featured in the regional and national press, opening your work to a greater audience.
4. You will have the chance to win not only a cash prize but also a commercial mentoring package to further develop your work and career as an artist and a spot at next year’s exhibition.
WHY
APPLY
TO THE
VAO24
ART
PRIZE?
TESTIMONIALS
Ben Summers
"I tend to enter competitions with a big pinch of salt, so it was a thrill to be selected! and then to receive the 2023 Painting category prize. I appreciated meeting and connecting with other artists as well. A welcome surprise and experience all round. Big thank you to the VAO team"
Claire Jackson
"Winning the sculpture category at the Visual Art Open was a pivotal moment for me. It not only a pleasure to showcase my work but also significantly boosted my motivation and confidence. Exhibiting in the final show was a remarkable experience, and I am now even more enthusiastic about creating and sharing my art with a broader audience. A huge thank you to the VAO for this incredible opportunity and for believing in my work."
Isabel Couceiro
“Being the overall winner of VAO has opened so many doors for me. Not only was I able to meet so many incredible people, but I was also able to really jumpstart my career as a young artist. Thank you so much to you all!"
Ashton Blyth
"I am so grateful to the Visual Art Open and to this year's judging panel for seeing and believing in my artwork and its potential."
Cindy Kontis
"I am very honored that my work is recognized by the prestigious Visual Art Organization in London and I'm looking forward to attending inspiring Visual Artist Association workshops and lectures in the coming year!"
Laura Waldusky
"I am so pleased to be the winner of the Illustration and Drawing Category for the Visual Arts Open 2023. My drawing practice is something I've been honing for the last decade. To be recognised by a group of respected art professionals has taken my opportunities to the next level. I'm also happy the work found a collector in New York and that the sale through the VAA will be a part of its provenance."