Opportunity Summary
Since 1963, the Masur Museum of Art's Annual Juried Competition has been a platform for emerging contemporary artists working across the United States. Open to all media and styles, this exhibition has become the museum's longest-running tradition and one of its most anticipated shows each year.
Each cycle, 1,000–1,500 works are submitted nationwide, while only a select group will be chosen to be on view for four months at the Masur. Alongside institutional recognition, chosen artists will compete for $3,200 in cash prizes awarded to first, second, and third place winners.
This is your opportunity to showcase your work to a diverse public audience, build your exhibition record, and be part of a tradition that has shaped the museum's history for over sixty years.
Submit today and secure your chance to be part of this historical exhibition.
General Information
The Masur Museum of Art began building its collection in 1963 with the very first Juried Competition, when Ida Kohlmeyer, student of Mark Rothko, won first place, and the museum acquired her painting Immanence.
Today, the collection houses more than 500 works, including pieces by internationally renowned artists such as Picasso, Renoir, and Rodin. Yet a significant percentage of acquisitions have come directly through the museum's long history of Juried Competitions. We remain committed to supporting and advancing the work of contemporary artists across the nation through both exhibition and acquisition.
This year's juror: TBA
Awards
Best in Show is $1,000.00 and total awards are $3,200.00.
Awards will be given by Hickey at the reception. A notification will be sent via provided e-mail announcing award recipients. Artists do not have to be present to receive awards. Checks will be mailed after the reception.
Best Packed: This award will honor the artist who packs their art in the most professional manner. The award is $100.00. No packing peanuts, feedbags, cigarette butts, etc. These types of things will disqualify you! Show your work and our staff the respect they deserve. This prize will be decided by the Masur Museum staff.
Important Dates
- Monday, December 16, 2026, 11:59 pm: Online submission deadline
- Jan 14, 2027: Artists are notified of the juror's selections via provided e-mail
- February 22 – March 4, 2027: Artwork delivery period
- March 11 – May 15, 2027: Exhibition on view at the historic Masur Museum
- Opening Reception: March 11, 2027