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YICCA 2026 – International Contest of Contemporary Art (YICCA Art Prize 2026) opens its doors to photographers alongside other contemporary mediums, offering cash awards and a final exhibition in Europe. Submissions close on November 20, 2025, with winners announced on December 9, 2025. The contest accepts photographic work presented as images, with up to six entries per artist. For those scouting the best photography challenges online, this edition deserves a spot on the shortlist.
Key points at a glance. Four monetary awards are on the table, including a €3,000 first prize and a €1,000 special award for students. Eighteen artists will be chosen for the final exhibition and published in the YICCA catalogue. Entry fees scale by number of works and there is an early-application discount through October 20, 2025. As an open call across media, this competition fits neatly within open theme photo contests, and—given its cash awards—also aligns with cash prizes.
The YICCA 2026 Prizes
YICCA 2026 offers four monetary prizes and multiple visibility opportunities for finalists. Beyond financial support, selected artists gain exposure through a European exhibition and printed publication.
- First Prize: €3,000
- Second Prize: €1,000
- Third Prize: €500
- Student Special Prize: €1,000 (awarded to a participant enrolled in an accredited art or photography program)
In addition to these awards, 18 artists will be selected for a collective exhibition in a European gallery. All finalists are also featured in the YICCA 2026 Catalogue, distributed during the show’s opening. The winning names are revealed on the exhibition’s closing day.
Related Photo Contests
The Categories of the YICCA Art Prize 2026
There are no fixed categories. The theme is open and welcomes contemporary photography alongside other media such as video, installations and performances. Photographs must be submitted as image files and the work must be available for the exhibition.
YICCA Art Prize 2026 Dates and Entry Fees
Key Dates:
- Early application discount (20% off): until October 20, 2025
- Final application deadline: November 20, 2025
- Notification of winning artworks: December 9, 2025
Entry Fees:
- 1 artwork: €50
- 2 artworks: €80
- 3 artworks: €110
- 4 artworks: €130
- 5 artworks: €145
- 6 artworks: €160
Fees are non-refundable and must be paid before final selection. A discount applies for those who register before the early deadline.
How to Enter:
- Complete the online registration form on the official YICCA website.
- Upload a photo (JPG or GIF) for each work. Video entries require a still image and hosting on Vimeo.
- Submit up to six works per artist.
- Pay the participation fee via credit card, prepaid/PayPal card or bank transfer.
- Review your submission carefully—entries and descriptions cannot be modified once sent.
About the Jury
The jury list is published on the official site before the subscriptions deadline. Eighteen artists are selected for the final exhibition. Cash-prize winners are determined by an overall rating, calculated in equal parts by the jury, the organizing association and the hosting gallery.
Why Enter YICCA Art Prize 2026?
For photographers, YICCA combines cash awards, a European exhibition and catalogue publication, all within an open-theme format. The contest also runs a promotional campaign around the event, which can extend visibility beyond the show. Photographers comparing opportunities in a photo contest directory will recognize the mix of exhibition and publication benefits here, making it comparable to other programs that feature exhibition prizes and publication prizes.
Rules and Copyright
This section about the rules and image rights of the YICCA 2026 has been generated automatically. If you are interested in participating in this contest we suggest you review the complete rules provided by the contest.
Rules
The call is open worldwide, with no special qualifications. All techniques are allowed and works must be available for the final exhibition. Size can reach up to 3 × 3 meters. Up to six works per artist are accepted. Registration must be completed online and the fee paid for publication of the entry on the site. Payment may be made by card, PayPal or bank transfer as instructed during registration. Transport, delivery, insurance and return of works are the responsibility of the artist. Dates and venue details for the exhibition are confirmed on the official site before the subscriptions deadline.
Copyright and Image Usage
By registering, participants authorize the organizer to process personal data for competition purposes. Images and texts remain the responsibility of the submitting artist, and may be used in relation to the competition, including the exhibition, website and catalogue. The organizer reserves the right to remove content deemed unsuitable. Prize payments are made by bank transfer within the stated timeframe upon receipt of the required signed certificate.
For more information and to participate in the contest, visit: the official website.
