- Deadline
- Sep 19
- Award
- The newly increased $75,000 grand prize is the largest offered solely to women figurative realist painters. For the third time, an additional award of $10,000 will be given to one other finalist. The winner receives $37,500 each year for two years, so she has time to create her solo show.
- Eligibility
- Aspiring women painters are invited to apply for The Bennett Prize. The prize is offered solely to women figurative realist painters.
- Location
- Muskegon, Michigan, USA
About
The Bennett Prize is calling for entries for its fifth iteration, offering a significant award to women figurative realist painters. The grand prize has been increased to $75,000, making it the largest prize of its kind offered exclusively to women in this specific art form. Additionally, a $10,000 award will be given to one other finalist. The winner will receive $37,500 annually for two years, providing dedicated time to create a solo exhibition. This exhibition will travel nationally, starting with a display at the Muskegon Museum of Art (MMA) in Muskegon, Michigan, in the summer of 2027. Endowed by art collectors Steven Alan Bennett and Dr. Elaine Melotti Schmidt at the MMA, the prize aims to elevate women figurative realist painters and help them achieve their full potential. The initiative seeks to address the disparity in recognition and market value for works by women artists compared to men. The call for entries runs from April 13 to September 19, 2026.