The Kuenyehia Trust for Contemporary Art has officially opened submissions for the 2024 Kuenyehia Prize for Contemporary Art, inviting West African visual artists between the ages of 18 and 40 to compete for the prestigious award.

The prize, which highlights excellence in contemporary African art, includes a total prize fund of $10,000.

Artists specializing in painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, carving, and installations are encouraged to submit their works before the December 22, 2024 deadline through the prize’s website, www.kuenyehiaprize.org.

The winner, who will be announced in February 2025, will be selected by an independent jury based on the quality of their artistic statement and the overall trajectory of their work.

In addition to the cash prize, shortlisted artists will participate in the Kuenyehia Trust’s Creative Accelerator Programme, which offers intensive practical training, mentoring, and access to global best practices.

These artists will also benefit from opportunities to exhibit their work at both local and international events, potentially expanding their reach and career opportunities.

Now in its eighth edition, the Kuenyehia Prize was founded by Professor Elikem Nutifafa Kuenyehia to support, reward, and develop outstanding African artists.

Previous winners and shortlisted artists have showcased their work at leading art fairs and exhibitions in South Africa, the United States, and Spain, receiving significant recognition on both the local and international stage.

The Kuenyehia Trust’s commitment to promoting contemporary African art aims to inspire the next generation of African artists while providing them with the resources and platforms to succeed in the global art scene.