Deadline: March 1, 2026
The UN OHCHR International Contest for Minority Artists 2026 invites minority artists worldwide to submit powerful works that explore the theme “War and Reconciliation.” Organized by the United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) in collaboration with partners such as Freemuse, Minority Rights Group, and the City of Geneva, this global art competition aims to amplify minority voices through creative expression and promote inclusion, peace, and human rights.
About the UN OHCHR International Contest for Minority Artists 2026
The International Contest for Minority Artists 2026 celebrates artistic talent from individuals who self-identify as members of national, ethnic, religious, or linguistic minorities. Each year, the contest highlights a central human rights theme, encouraging artists to challenge perceptions, tell their stories, and inspire change through visual and performing arts.
The 2026 theme, “War and Reconciliation,” focuses on how conflict affects minority communities and how art can foster healing, understanding, and reconstruction. Participants are encouraged to reflect deeply on resilience, memory, justice, and reconciliation through their chosen artistic mediums.
Who Can Apply
The contest is open to artists of all nationalities who self-identify as belonging to a minority community.
Artists from across the globe are welcome to submit original artworks that address the contest’s central theme.
The competition particularly encourages applications from:
- Women and LGBTQI+ artists belonging to minority backgrounds
- Emerging artists who have not yet gained mainstream recognition
Eligible Art Forms
All art forms are accepted, including:
- Painting and drawing
- Sculpture and installation
- Photography and video art
- Digital and multimedia art
- Performance, sound, and music
Submissions should clearly align with the 2026 theme “War and Reconciliation.”
Awards and Recognition
Up to eight non-hierarchical awards will be presented to outstanding participants. Categories include:
- Main Award – for exceptional overall artistic excellence and thematic relevance
- Minority Youth Artist Award – recognizing talented young artists under 35 (with preference for applicants under 24 years old as of 1 March 2026)
- Minority Community Engagement Award – for artists whose work has made a tangible impact within their community
Winning artists will gain global exposure, and selected works may be featured in international exhibitions and UN platforms later in the year.
Submission Guidelines
Artists must submit the following materials:
- Up to five high-quality electronic copies of their artworks that address the contest theme.
- A short artist bio or vision statement explaining how their work engages with War and Reconciliation.
Submissions are accepted in any of the six official UN languages — Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish.
Participation in the UN OHCHR International Contest for Minority Artists 2026 is completely free of charge.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 1 March 2026
- Announcement of Winners: November 2026 (expected)
- Application Fee: None
Why Participate
This contest is not only a platform for artistic recognition but also a movement for visibility and justice.
By taking part in the UN OHCHR International Contest for Minority Artists 2026, creators can:
- Share their lived experiences and perspectives globally
- Contribute to the global dialogue on war, peace, and minority rights
- Inspire empathy and reconciliation through the power of art
How to Apply
Interested artists can submit their applications online before the closing date.
Be sure to prepare all artwork files and your statement before submission.
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