RP Drawing Prize: Revealing the Human 2026
RP Drawing Prize: Revealing the Human 2026

RP Drawing Prize: Revealing the Human 2026

Full-Time No home office possible
Artinfoland

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Submit your artwork for a chance to showcase your talent in a major exhibition.
  • Company: Royal Society of Portrait Painters, a leader in contemporary portraiture.
  • Benefits: Win £5,000 and gain exposure through a curated exhibition.
  • Other info: Join a vibrant community and connect with fellow creatives.
  • Why this job: Explore the human form creatively and redefine portraiture with your unique style.
  • Qualifications: Open to all artists aged 18+, amateur or professional.

The Royal Society of Portrait Painters (RP) is a distinguished institution dedicated to championing stylistic and intellectual diversity within the tradition of portraiture. While upholding historical values, the Society actively seeks to develop new artistic perspectives.

This international open call invites artists, designers, and creatives to explore the immediate and direct nature of drawing as a response to the human form. The Society is keen to expand the traditional definition of a "portrait," welcoming bold, original, and thought-provoking depictions of people in any drawing style or technique. Up to 120 works will be selected for a major exhibition, offering artists at all career stages the chance to showcase their observational skills and meaningful engagement with the human subject.

Categories: Drawing and Portraiture.

Eligibility: Open to International and UK-based artists, designers, and makers. Applicants must be aged 18 or over (amateur or professional). Work must be a 2D medium that can be considered a drawing. Pieces must have been completed within the last three years. Minimum sale price (if for sale) is £300. Maximum dimension: 1.8m along the longest side.

Program Benefits and Awards:

  • The RP Drawing Prize: £5,000 cash award.
  • Exhibition: Inclusion in a curated show at the University of Hull Art Gallery.
  • Sales Opportunity: Works can be listed for sale through a dedicated online catalogue and sales site (30% + VAT commission).
  • Commission Management: Selected artists can advertise for portrait commissions via the FBA Art Consultancy.
  • Publication: Exposure through the Society's marketing channels and exhibition material.

Fees:

  • Standard Entry: £20 per work.
  • Young Artist (35 or under): £12 per work (proof of age required).
  • Maximum of three works may be submitted.

Application Requirements:

  • Online submission of digital images via the ArtOpps portal.
  • Accurate metadata including title, dimensions, media, and price.
  • Acceptance of the Society's terms and conditions regarding delivery and insurance.

Selection: A two-stage process involving artist members of the RP and a final distinguished panel (John Bernasconi, Anthony Connolly, and Caragh Savage).

Important Dates:

  • Online Submission Deadline: July 28, 2026 (5:00 PM).
  • Selection Notification: August 14, 2026.
  • Delivery (Hull): September 2 – 4, 2026.
  • Delivery (London Drop-off): September 2 & 5, 2026.
  • Private View: September 17, 2026.
  • Exhibition Dates: September 18 – October 18, 2026.

Location: United Kingdom, Hull (University of Hull Art Gallery). Selected artists are responsible for delivery costs and insurance. While traditional framing is common, selectors welcome works intended for non-traditional display. International artists will receive specific delivery details for Hull upon selection.

RP Drawing Prize: Revealing the Human 2026 employer: Artinfoland

The Royal Society of Portrait Painters offers a unique opportunity for artists to engage with a vibrant community dedicated to the evolution of portraiture. Located at the University of Hull Art Gallery, this role not only provides a platform for showcasing diverse artistic expressions but also fosters professional growth through exhibitions and potential sales opportunities. With a commitment to inclusivity and innovation, the Society is an excellent employer for creatives seeking to make a meaningful impact in the art world.
Artinfoland

Contact Detail:

Artinfoland Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land RP Drawing Prize: Revealing the Human 2026

✨Tip Number 1

Get your portfolio in shape! Make sure it showcases your best work and reflects your unique style. We want to see your personality shine through, so don’t hold back!

✨Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Attend art events, exhibitions, and workshops to meet fellow creatives and industry professionals. We can’t stress enough how valuable connections can be in landing that dream opportunity.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Whether it’s in person or online, being able to confidently talk about your work and artistic vision is key. We suggest rehearsing with friends or fellow artists to get comfortable.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to submit your work for the RP Drawing Prize. We’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions.

We think you need these skills to ace RP Drawing Prize: Revealing the Human 2026

Artistic Skills
Drawing Techniques
Observational Skills
Creativity
Understanding of Portraiture
Engagement with Human Subject
Digital Image Submission
Metadata Accuracy
Knowledge of Art Sales
Commission Management
Marketing Awareness
Adaptability to Non-Traditional Display

Some tips for your application 🫡

Get to Know the Prize: Before diving into your application, take a moment to really understand what the RP Drawing Prize is all about. Familiarise yourself with their mission to champion diverse artistic perspectives and think about how your work aligns with this vision.

Showcase Your Unique Style: This prize is all about bold and original depictions of the human form. Make sure your submission reflects your unique artistic voice and pushes the boundaries of traditional portraiture. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Pay Attention to Details: When submitting your digital images, ensure that you provide accurate metadata including title, dimensions, media, and price. This is your chance to make a great first impression, so don’t skip the small stuff!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smooth process. Remember, the deadline is July 28, 2026, so mark your calendars and get those entries in on time!

How to prepare for a job interview at Artinfoland

✨Know Your Art Inside Out

Before the interview, make sure you can talk confidently about your work. Be prepared to discuss your artistic process, the techniques you used, and what inspired your pieces. This will show your passion and commitment to your craft.

✨Research the Royal Society of Portrait Painters

Familiarise yourself with the RP's mission and values. Understanding their focus on stylistic and intellectual diversity will help you align your answers with their vision during the interview. It’s all about showing that you’re a good fit for their community.

✨Prepare Thought-Provoking Questions

Think of insightful questions to ask the interviewers about the prize and the exhibition. This not only demonstrates your genuine interest but also gives you a chance to engage in a meaningful conversation about contemporary drawing and portraiture.

✨Practice Your Presentation Skills

If you're selected for an interview, you might need to present your work. Practise speaking clearly and confidently about your pieces. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable discussing your art in a professional setting.

RP Drawing Prize: Revealing the Human 2026
Artinfoland

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