#United States #New York #Emerging Artists #AXA Art Prize

The Launch of the 2026 AXA Art Prize

On February 5, 2026, AXA XL officially announced the commencement of the ninth edition of the AXA Art Prize in the United States, a renowned platform aimed at supporting emerging figurative artists. Designed exclusively for undergraduate and graduate students, this prestigious competition encourages young artists across the nation to submit their creative works, including paintings, drawings, and prints, to showcase their innovative vision. The final date for submissions is set for March 16, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.

Since its inception in 2018, the AXA Art Prize has proven to be an essential venue for budding talents eager to carve their niche in the art world. The competition gathers an array of artistic expressions each year, which are rigorously assessed by a distinguished panel comprising influential curators, critics, and collectors dedicated to nurturing the next wave of art visionaries.

Lucy Pilko, the CEO of AXA XL Americas, expressed her excitement about this year's initiative by stating, "Art serves as a significant force for change and connection. With the AXA Art Prize, we champion not merely talent but the diverse stories, perspectives, and visions that will reconstruct the cultural framework of our future. We empower artists to challenge norms and redefine the boundaries of figurative art."

Competition Structure

The competition consists of three dynamic phases. Initially, submissions will be scrutinized by Regional Juries, which include members from the AXA Art Prize Strategic Advisory Board as well as leading institutions such as the Rhode Island School of Design, California College of the Arts, and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Following the first round, a distinguished Exhibition Jury, made up of top-tier museum curators, will select 40 finalists to exhibit their works.

These selected finalists will have the unique opportunity to present their impressive creations at the AXA Art Prize Exhibition scheduled to launch in New York in November 2026. The winners of both the First and Second Prizes will be recognized by a panel of celebrated contemporary artists, who will award $10,000 for the First Prize and $5,000 for the Second Prize.

Jennifer Schipf, the Global Chief Underwriting Officer for Fine Art & Specie at AXA XL, shared her enthusiasm: "Annually, the AXA Art Prize unveils a multitude of extraordinary talent. Our commitment lies in supporting these artists and their visions—because art goes beyond expression; it molds societal conversations. We take pride in being part of this journey, endorsing artists who defy conventions and inspire transformation."

For those interested in detailed information regarding eligibility, submission protocols, and award announcements, visit www.axaxl.com/axa-art-prize or get in touch through email at [email protected]. Follow the AXA Art Prize on Facebook and join AXA XL on LinkedIn to stay updated!

About AXA XL

AXA XL delivers insurance and risk management products tailored for mid-sized companies to large multinationals, in addition to portfolio solutions for global insurance firms. We strive to collaborate with those who progress the world. For more information, visit www.axaxl.com.

About the New York Academy of Art

Founded in 1982 by a group of artists and patrons, including the legendary Andy Warhol, the New York Academy of Art is a not-for-profit educational and cultural institution. It fuses intensive technical training in drawing, painting, and sculpture with a vibrant critical discourse. Students are encouraged to express contemporary artistic visions through classical methods and techniques. Major exhibitions, a dynamic speaker series, and a robust educational program establish the Academy as a creative nucleus for artists devoted to conceptually aware, highly skilled figurative and representational art.