TAF Emerging Artist Award 2026
Presented by The Arts Family (TAF)
About the Award
The TAF Emerging Artist Award 2026 recognises talented emerging artists whose practice demonstrates originality, critical engagement, and a meaningful contribution to contemporary art from South Asia and its diasporas.
The award supports artists exploring new ideas, mediums, and platforms, providing a year-long framework of funding, mentorship, and visibility to help advance their practice and career.
Who Should Apply
The award is open to:
- Artists based in South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Afghanistan) or the diaspora, with a demonstrable connection to the region
- Artists working across media, including visual arts, digital practices, performance, interdisciplinary, and socially engaged projects
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be emerging artists with a minimum of 3-5 years of professional practice
- Age: 28-40 years old
- Have a portfolio of 2–3 significant projects or exhibitions (physical, digital, or hybrid)
- Demonstrate a distinct artistic vision informed by research, experimentation, or critical inquiry
- Show commitment to ethical, inclusive, and socially conscious practice
- Collective applications are accepted; one lead artist must be designated
The Award
TAF Emerging Artist 2026
The selected artist will receive:
Artistic Residency – A grant of upto INR 1,50,000 towards an artist Residency. In the past we have worked with BSJW Trust in St Ives and some others (Residency name tbc soon)
TAF Mentorship Programme (12 months) – Guidance from senior international artists, curators, and cultural professionals
International Platform – Opportunity to present work through TAF exhibitions, public programmes, or talks
Publication & Visibility – Inclusion in TAF’s annual archive, online platforms, and a dedicated artist profile or feature
Application Requirements
Submissions must be in English and include:
- Artist CV (max. 3 pages)
- Statement of Artistic Practice (max. 1,000 words)
- Portfolio of Projects (in one pdf) – Images, videos, texts, or links documenting previous work
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed by an international jury including artists, curators, academics, and a representative from TAF (non-voting chair). Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews or presentations.
Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be assessed on:
- Artistic vision, originality, and innovation
- Depth of research and conceptual rigor
- Contribution to contemporary South Asian art discourse
- Ethical, inclusive, and socially engaged practice
- Feasibility and impact of the proposed project
Key Dates (Indicative)
- Call for Applications Opens: Feb 2026
- Application Deadline: April 2026
- Shortlist Announcement: June 2026
- Interviews / Jury Review: August 2026
- Award Announcement: September 2026
- Award Period: October 2026 – September 2027
About The Arts Family (TAF)
The Arts Family (TAF) is an international platform supporting artists, curators, and cultural practitioners through exhibitions, mentorship, research, and public programmes. TAF is committed to cross-cultural dialogue and building sustainable ecosystems for contemporary art from South Asia and beyond.
How to Apply
Application details, submission links, and FAQs are available at:
www.theartsfamily.com