$10,000
$7,000 for first place
$2,000 for second place
$1,000 for third placeFor over 128 years, Willet Stained Glass Studios has been a world leader in capturing light, movement, and legacy. Now, we are looking for artists who can capture the energy, determination, and emotion of sport.
Whether you are a painter, sculptor, digital artist, or glass artisan, this is your opportunity to push your creative limits and explore new artistic possibilities.
About the Judging Panel:
The Willet Art Prize is evaluated by a distinguished panel of leaders across art, design, academia, and culture. Each year, we carefully curate this group to ensure diverse perspectives and a rigorous evaluation process that honors both tradition and innovation.
Our panel brings together a unique blend of expertise, including:
Master Craftsmanship: Leadership with deep expertise in stained glass and architectural arts.
Academic Excellence: University professors and academic leaders who provide a critical lens on artistic theory and history.
Curation & Gallery Insights: Museum curators and gallery directors who understand the impact of art in public and private spaces.
Industry Influence: Design experts, media influencers, and cultural leaders who shape modern aesthetics.
Global Perspectives: Elite athletes and Olympians who offer a firsthand perspective on this year’s theme of athletic excellence and the “Quest for Gold.”
By combining the technical eye of professional artists with the visionary outlook of design and cultural leaders, the panel ensures that the final three winners represent the very best in technique, thematic execution, and creative potential.
Application Tips & Requirements
To make the application process as smooth as possible, we recommend focusing your submission on high-resolution documentation that captures the movement and emotion of this year’s theme, “Quest for Gold.” Because the initial selection phase relies on a community vote, your digital presentation is just as important as the physical work itself. Ensure your images are clear and well-lit to best engage the public and secure your spot as a finalist.
As your work moves toward the final judging phase, keep in mind that our panel—comprised of international artists, academic leaders, and stained glass masters—is looking for technical mastery and thematic depth. A key tip for applicants is to consider the “translatability” of their work; the judges are particularly interested in original visions that could be adapted into architectural art glass. Highlighting strong silhouettes and a strategic use of light will help your entry resonate with the expert panel.
Finally, please ensure you meet the following eligibility requirements:
Age Requirement: All applicants must be 18 years of age or older at the time of entry.
Artist Statement: Your submission must include a concise statement articulating your unique interpretation of athletic excellence and global unity.
The final winners are selected based on how effectively their technique aligns with the “Quest for Gold” narrative, so ensure every element of your entry reflects a high level of craftsmanship and storytelling.
Submission Deadline: August 31, 2026
Jury Decision: October 31, 2026
More Info
https://willet-studios.com/willet-art-prize/#gallery
Salary
$1,000-$7,000
Location
Winona, MN
Opportunity Region
National
Commitment
Non-Applicable
Contact Email
michelle.hutchinson@aspen-mp.com