The Brave Island Isle of Wight Young Artist Award returns with renewed ambition, offering emerging creatives another chance to showcase their work on the Island’s cultural stage. Building on the momentum from previous years, the competition continues to establish itself as a vital platform for young artistic talent.
Brave Island has joined forces with Quay Arts once more to launch this year’s competition, which drew over 40 young artists’ works to last year’s exhibition at the Newport venue.
The partnership demonstrates the ongoing commitment both organisations share towards nurturing the next generation of creative voices.
Countdown begins for deadline
Applications have opened, and young artists now face a 22nd September deadline to submit their entries.
The competition’s return signals another opportunity for emerging talent to gain recognition and professional exposure through one of the Island’s most established arts institutions.
Exhibition plans take shape
A panel of judges from Brave Island and Quay Arts will select a shortlist of entries for public exhibition. The chosen works will display in the Clayden Gallery at Quay Arts throughout the month-long exhibition, offering selected artists significant visibility within the Island’s arts community.
All shortlisted artists will receive invitations to a special launch event, where organisers will announce the overall winner. This celebration promises to bring together the artistic community and provide networking opportunities for participating artists.
Creative freedom encouraged
The competition welcomes artwork in any medium, from photography and graphic design to painting and beyond. Organisers accept 3D works and moving image submissions, alongside traditional pieces, ensuring the award reflects contemporary artistic practice in all its diversity.
Artists can submit wall-mounted pieces, works for display on plinths, or moving image content for TV screens. This technical flexibility allows creators to present their work in the most appropriate format for their artistic vision.
No theme restrictions apply
The award imposes no set theme or subject requirements, giving those taking part complete creative freedom. Organisers view this as an opportunity for young artists to showcase their individual skills and artistic vision without the constraints that themed competitions sometimes impose.
Artists may submit multiple pieces, though judges will consider each entry separately. This approach allows prolific creators to present a broader range of their work whilst ensuring each piece receives individual consideration.
Application process streamlined
Applicants must explain why they wish to participate in the opportunity and describe their artwork submission. The online application system allows artists to upload images of their work, with zip file options available for multiple pieces, making the submission process accessible to artists working across different media.
Those experiencing upload difficulties can complete the question sections and organisers will contact them via email to receive images. Get in touch with megan@ventnorexchange.co.uk if you have any issues.
Don’t miss the deadlines
Shortlisted artists must deliver their physical artwork to Quay Arts between 26th and 29th September 2025. Works must arrive ready for wall mounting or display as appropriate, placing responsibility on artists to ensure professional presentation standards.
The exhibition of shortlisted entries will open on Sunday 5th October and continue until Saturday 1st November 2025, providing a full month for public engagement with the selected works.
