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- Tasks: Submit your artwork for a chance to showcase your talent in a prestigious exhibition.
- Company: Herbert Smith Freehills and National Portrait Gallery, celebrating contemporary portraiture.
- Benefits: Exhibit at a renowned gallery and compete for cash prizes up to £14,000.
- Why this job: Gain recognition and support for your artistic journey while connecting with fellow creatives.
- Qualifications: Open to all artists aged 18 and over, worldwide.
- Other info: Entry fee is £40, with discounts available for eligible artists.
Entries are now open for the Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award. The annual painting competition returns to the National Portrait Gallery for 2026, celebrating the best in contemporary portraiture. One of the most important platforms for portrait painters today, the competition showcases the variety of approaches to portraiture and encourages artists to focus upon, and develop, the theme of portraiture in their work.
Who can apply
- The competition is open to all artists, age 18 or over, from around the world.
What you get
- Selected artists will be exhibited in the Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award 2026 exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery, from 25 June – 7 October 2026.
- Selected artists will be considered for the following prizes:
- All artists chosen to exhibit in 2026 and 2027’s Portrait Award exhibitions will be considered for the bi-annual Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Artist Commission (value £14,000), to be announced in 2027.
- All selected artists aged between 18 and 30 will automatically be considered for the Young Artist Award (value £9,000).
Entry fee
£40 (Artists in receipt of Universal Credit or Pension Credit can enter this year’s competition for free, and a 50% discount is in place for artists who receive Disability Benefits, who are students, or who are between the ages of 18 and 25.)
Deadline 06 January 2026
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Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award 2026 employer: ArtRabbit Ltd.
Contact Detail:
ArtRabbit Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow artists and industry professionals. Attend art events, exhibitions, and workshops to make connections that could lead to opportunities. Remember, it’s not just about what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your work online! Use social media platforms and your own website to display your portfolio. Engage with your audience and other artists; this can help you gain visibility and attract potential opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews and discussions! If you get the chance to talk about your work, be ready to discuss your artistic process and inspirations. Practice makes perfect, so rehearse your pitch until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve made it super easy for you to submit your entries for the Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity – get your application in before the deadline!
We think you need these skills to ace Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Theme: Make sure you really understand the theme of portraiture and how it relates to your work. We want to see how you interpret this in your paintings, so don’t hold back on showcasing your unique style!
Craft a Strong Artist Statement: Your artist statement is your chance to connect with us. Keep it clear and engaging, explaining your artistic journey and what inspires your portraits. This helps us get to know you beyond just your artwork.
Follow the Guidelines: Double-check the entry requirements and guidelines before submitting. We can’t stress enough how important it is to stick to the rules, as this will save you from any last-minute hiccups!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smooth process. It’s straightforward and ensures that your entry gets to us without any fuss!
How to prepare for a job interview at ArtRabbit Ltd.
✨Know Your Art Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of your own work and the themes you explore in your portraiture. Be ready to discuss your artistic process, influences, and what makes your approach unique. This will show your passion and commitment to your craft.
✨Research the Competition
Familiarise yourself with previous winners and the types of works that have been successful in the Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award. Understanding the competition's ethos and aesthetic can help you tailor your presentation and highlight how your work aligns with their vision.
✨Prepare Your Pitch
Craft a concise and engaging pitch about your artwork. Practice explaining your piece in a way that captures its essence and significance. This is your chance to connect with the judges, so make it memorable and authentic!
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
During the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the award and the exhibition process. This shows your genuine interest and helps you understand what the judges are looking for. Plus, it can spark a great conversation!