The SCAF Emerging Artist Award 2026 : The Process

 The Scott Creative Arts Foundation (SCAF) Emerging Artist Award has been created to celebrate and support emerging visual artists based in Yorkshire. This award is designed especially for those at the start of their artistic journeys—whether you are just beginning to develop your practice or working to establish your reputation. Our aim is to provide a platform for new voices, helping artists gain recognition and confidence as they take their first steps into the wider art world.

Why Apply

• Recognition and visibility: Winning and shortlisted artists will have their work exhibited at the prestigious Danum Gallery in Doncaster, a city with a rich cultural and industrial heritage.
• Financial support: With 10 awards in total, artists can receive:
  • 1st place: £1250
  • 2nd place: £500
  • 3rd place: £250
  • 7 further awards of £100 each for shortlisted artists
• Professional development: Exhibiting your work in a curated show and being judged by a panel of experts offers invaluable exposure to curators, buyers, and critics.
• Community and legacy: By participating, you join a network of creatives contributing to Yorkshire’s cultural landscape and shaping its artistic future.

This Year’s Theme: Heritage

Art is inseparable from heritage. Every act of creation is influenced by the stories, traditions, and identities that precede it. For 2026, the theme invites artists to explore heritage in all its forms:

• Personal memories and family histories
• Cultural traditions and rituals
• Social and architectural history
• Legacies of communities, ancestors, and environments

This is your chance to showcase your creative thinking and artistic skill to weave together your own response to the subject provided.

How to Apply

This award is open exclusively to emerging artists living in Yorkshire. Applying is straightforward:

• Visit the SCAF Emerging Artist website: scafemergingartist.co.uk
• Scroll down and click the application button to be redirected to Curator Space.
• Or go directly to the Curator Space page: Curator Space – SCAF Emerging Artist Award

The Process Broken Down

• Proposal: Submit a written and visual proposal describing an original artwork you would create specifically for this award.
• Creation: If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to realise your proposal. Final works must be delivered to SCAF by Saturday 4th July 2026.
• Judging & Exhibition: Shortlisted artworks will be displayed at the Emerging Artist Award 2026 exhibition at Danum Gallery, Doncaster.
  • Prize‑giving: Thursday 23rd July 2026, during the Open Evening.
  • Exhibition run: Until 20th September 2026, before touring to the Scott Creative Arts Foundation at The Art House in Thirsk

Stay Connected

Follow SCAF on social media for updates, announcements, and behind‑the‑scenes insights. We look forward to seeing the creativity and vision that Yorkshire’s emerging artists bring to this year’s award.

Instagram : scottcreativeartsfoundation

Facebook : ScottCreativeArtsFoundation