The Norval Sovereign African Art Prize was launched in 2021 to increase the international exposure of artists in Africa or of the African diaspora, whilst raising funds for arts education programmes on the continent.
The Prize invites contemporary artists, nominated by a board of independent art professionals, to each enter up to three artworks online. A judging panel comprised of world-class art experts then shortlists the 30 best artworks from a range of digital images. Click here for T&Cs.
The shortlisted artworks are exhibited at Norval Foundation in Cape Town. Members of the public can enjoy the artworks and engage in the public vote. Local students are offered the opportunity to engage in educational programming.
At the exhibition, the artworks are judged for a second time and voted on by the public. The judges scores are aggregated, and a Grand Prize winner is named.
To increase exposure for the artists, the general public are invited to cast a vote online or in person for their favourite shortlisted artwork. The most popular artwork is awarded the Public Vote Prize.
The shortlisted artworks, besides the Grand Prize winner, are auctioned and proceeds are split evenly between the artists and Norval Foundation’s Learning Centre. Click here to learn more about the cause.
Artists receive the same split as they would through a gallery and the artworks often fetch higher prices thanks to generous bidding from charity patrons.
There are two cash prizes available to shortlisted artists. In addition, all shortlisted artists enjoy increased international exposure, top tier media coverage, and the opportunity to exhibit their work publicly in Cape Town.
Awarded to the artist with the highest score from the judges.
Awarded to the artist with the most votes from the public.
