The Cass Art Prize, one of the UK’s most celebrated art competitions, is back for 2025 with a bigger prize pool, a stellar new judging panel, and fresh opportunities for artists across the UK and Ireland, per artplugged.co.uk.
Announced on March 4, 2025, the competition promises to be a defining moment for contemporary art, offering a £25,000 prize pool, including a £10,000 cash award for the Main Prize winner and a coveted stand at Saatchi Art’s The Other Art Fair.
This year’s competition introduces four new categories: the Over 65 Award, the Judge’s New Talent Award, the Emerging Artist Award, and the Pastel Award. These additions aim to broaden the Prize’s reach, celebrating artists of all ages and mediums. The Judge’s New Talent Award, curated by Soho Revue founder India Rose James, will grant the winner a solo exhibition at the prestigious Soho Revue gallery.
The judging panel features some of the most influential names in the art world, including Turner Prize-nominated sculptor David Mach RA, acclaimed painter Ishbel Myerscough, and cultural curator Ryan Lanji. Their expertise will ensure the Prize continues to spotlight groundbreaking talent, as seen in 2024 when rising star Reuben Murray won the Main Prize for his powerful portrait Ada.
Mark Cass, Founder and CEO of Cass Art, reiterated the prize’s mission: “We are delighted to continue our legacy of supporting artists. From professionals to beginners, this Prize is for everyone. We look forward to showcasing the incredible talent across our communities.”
The 2025 Cass Art Prize exhibition will run from October 24 to November 1 at London’s Copeland Gallery, with the award ceremony set for October 23. Submissions open on March 4 and close on May 13, 2025, with entry fees starting at £12.
As the Cass Art Prize evolves, it remains a vital platform for emerging and established artists, reaffirming its role as a cornerstone of the UK’s contemporary art scene. For more details, visit cassart.co.uk/thecassartprize.
•Featured image: Mark Cass and Reuben Murray 2024 Cass Art Prize/Getty Images
