If you’re an emerging or established artist looking for your next break, here’s one to mark in your calendar. The Rust-en-Vrede Portrait Award is back — and entries open 5 June 2025.
Launched in 2013, the biennial competition has become one of South Africa’s most respected portrait prizes, with a big focus on giving up-and-coming artists a platform. It’s open to anyone over 18 living in SA, and no formal training is required, just talent, vision and a fresh take on what a portrait can be.
There’s R200,000 in prize money up for grabs, with the winner receiving R150,000 and a solo exhibition. But that’s not all: 40 finalists will also be selected for a group show and national touring exhibition.
No formal training? No problem.
“This competition is about vision and execution, not résumés,” says Donavan Mynhardt, curator at Rust-en-Vrede Gallery. “We’ve seen self-taught artists make it into the Top 40. It’s about opening the door to people who might not always have access to these kinds of platforms.”
The competition aims to remove barriers, especially for underrepresented artists. The judging process is anonymous, and this year’s panel includes artist Thonton Kabeya, curator Dr Dineke Orton and art critic Sean O’Toole, a mix of voices from across the art world.
What you need to know
Entries are open from 9am on 5 June until 5pm on 14 June 2025 — and that’s it. No late entries will be accepted.
All entries are judged anonymously, with no artist names or biographies provided, ensuring fairness and objectivity.
Says Mynhardt, “We encourage entries that push the boundaries of what a portrait can be – works that explore identity, emotion and the complexity of human connection.”
Here’s a quick breakdown:
• You must be 18 or older and live in SA permanently
• Artworks must be two-dimensional and based on a real person (with permission)
• Any medium is allowed, from pencil to pastel, oil, textile or mixed media (no photography)
• Each entry costs R250
• Submit online: www.rust-en-vrede.com/portrait-award
First-round judging happens via digital submissions. If selected for round two, your physical work must be delivered for in-person judging. A free delivery service is available at certain depots across the country.
Entries are only open for a limited period, and artists are encouraged to plan ahead. Mynhardt urges aspiring artists to, “Take your time, present your work thoughtfully, and most importantly – be bold and don’t wait till the last minute to enter. The Rust-en-Vrede Portrait Award is your platform to be seen.”
What’s in it for you?
• 1st Prize: R150,000 + solo exhibition
• 2nd Prize: R30,000
• 3rd Prize: R20,000
• Finalists will be featured in a touring group show
• A shot at national recognition, even if you’re just starting out
Plus, a Junior Portrait Award for 16–18-year-olds is set to launch in 2026.
Whether you’re a student, self-taught creative or emerging voice in the art world, trained or self-taught, this might be your chance to show what you can do.
Visit the Portrait Awards site for more info.
* Stay tuned to Between 10and5 for the latest opportunities for young creative talent.
