The Guidelines have been unified with specific information included for each artistic discipline: Visual Arts and Literary Arts. The program begins accepting applications within the Salesforce Grants portal.
Visual Arts: Individual artists or collaborative teams of up to two artists.
Literary Arts: Individual scriptwriters only (no collaborations). All applicants must be at least 18 years old and either U.S. citizens or permanent residents with DHS work authorization.
Literary Arts were added in 2023. Other disciplines may be added in the future.
Applications open via Salesforce on October 1, 2025.
What materials are required?
Can I submit more than the required number of samples?
No. Additional materials will not be reviewed.
When must the work have been created?
Do samples need a common theme?
Not required. Submit the work that best represents your practice.
Can I submit unfinished works?
No. Only completed works are eligible.
Do I need to finish the application in one sitting?
No. The application portal allows you to save progress and return later.
Can I revise my application after submission?
No. Applications are final once submitted.
Will I receive confirmation once submitted?
Yes. The system sends an automatic confirmation email.
What if I don’t have an artist statement?
The artist statement is an opportunity for the panelists to understand the context and approach for the work they are viewing. Here’s an article that may be helpful in developing your artist statement.
Why is a résumé required if jurors don’t review it?
Résumés are used by South Arts for publicity and promotion of awardees.
How long can my résumé be?
Between one and five pages.
Is there an application fee?
Yes, $25.
Can I request a fee waiver?
Yes. Email southernprize@southarts.org by December 3, 2025. Requests after that date may not be considered.
Can students apply?
No. students are not eligible.
Which states are eligible?
Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee.
How long must I have lived in my state?
At least two years prior to the deadline (since January 2024) and through June 30, 2027. What if I move after applying?
You must maintain residency through June 30, 2027. Moving earlier disqualifies you for an award.
What if I split my time between states?
Your primary residence must be in the South Arts region. Proof may be requested.
Why isn’t my state included?
South Arts is a Regional Arts Organization serving nine states. Other regions have their own programs; more info can be found here.
Can non-U.S. citizens apply?
Yes, if they have permanent DHS work authorization.
Are there restrictions on reapplying?
Yes.
State Fellowship recipients: ineligible for six years.
Southern Prize winners/finalists: ineligible for ten years.
Can I apply in collaboration with others?
Visual Arts: Yes, up to two artists may apply together.
Literary Arts: No collaborations are allowed.
Who will select the awardees?
A three-tier national panel process: the first panel selects the initial round of selected applications, the second panel selects the nine State Fellows from the selected applications, and the final panel selects the Southern Prize Winner and Finalist.
What are the review criteria?
Artistic excellence.
How is my work reviewed?
Visual Arts: Digital images on screen.
Literary Arts: PDF script samples on screen.
Will I receive feedback from panelists?
No. Due to the number of applications, feedback is not provided.
What are the prizes?
Are there restrictions on the use of funds?
No. Awards are unrestricted but are considered taxable income.
Are reports required?
Yes. Awardees must submit a one-page final report and images (if applicable) describing how the award has impacted their artistic journey.
Do I have to attend the awards ceremony?
Yes. South Arts covers one travel and lodging expense for awardees. Guest expenses are not covered.
What if I cannot attend?
Attendance is mandatory. Exceptions are rare.
What additional benefits are included?
Will my work be included in an exhibition or publication?
How are works selected?
Do I keep my work after exhibition/publication?
Who covers shipping or insurance?
Visual Arts: South Arts covers shipping and insures works during transit and display.
Can exhibited works be sold?
Yes. Sales are arranged between the artist and buyer. Works must remain on tour until the exhibition ends. South Arts takes no commission.
Will there be a catalogue?
Yes, a catalogue accompanies the Visual Arts exhibition.
Does South Arts cover preparation costs (framing, crating)?
No. Artists are responsible for preparing works for shipping and installation.
Can I opt out of the exhibition or anthology?
No. Participation is required.
How competitive is the program?
Very. Hundreds apply each year, and only nine State Fellows are selected.
Does my work need to reference the South?
No. The program celebrates excellence regardless of theme.
When can I use the award funds?
Once received, the awarded funds are yours!