The 12th annual Dorset Art Prize is now open, with Poole Museum announced as this year’s host venue.
This multimedia art competition was founded in 2014 by Bournemouth and Poole College in partnership with the Dorset Community Foundation Trust to inspire, champion and celebrate creative talent across the county.
Free to enter, it attracts hundreds of entries every year, with cash prizes of up to £1,000 on offer. Finalists also have the opportunity to see their work exhibited in a prestigious leading venue.
Open to both amateur and professional artists across two age groups – 16 to 18 and 18+ – this year’s prize takes the theme of ‘Metamorphosis’. Participants are invited to use any visual medium, from photography to fine art, sculpture to animation, to interpret and respond to the theme.
This year’s partner will be Poole Museum, set to host the exhibition of shortlisted works in early July.
Stuart Palmer, Director of Creative, Digital, Tech and Service Industries at Bournemouth and Poole College, said:
“We are excited to partner with Poole Museum, which is such a source of inspiration and pride for our community. The museum’s passion for creating opportunities for people to experience the transformative power of the arts fits perfectly with our college mission to connect education, community and culture.
“The Dorset Art Prize is a fantastic opportunity for the many talented creatives in our area to showcase their wonderful work. We’re excited to inspire the next generation of creators and storytellers and contribute to the cultural identity of the place we call home.”
Jaine Fitzpatrick, Interim Director, Poole Museum, said:
“We’re delighted to host the Dorset Art Prize at Poole Museum. We’re passionate about celebrating culture and creativity in all its forms, whether that’s through internationally acclaimed artists in our dedicated gallery spaces, or emerging local talent full of imagination, skill, and heart.
“This exhibition is a brilliant example of the incredible talent thriving in our local community. The Dorset Art Prize brings together inspiring and thought-provoking work, and we’re proud to be the location where it can be celebrated and enjoyed.”
Entries for the 2026 Dorset Art Prize close at midnight on Sunday 14 June 2026.
Shortlisted artworks will be showcased at Poole Museum from 2–14 July 2026.
For more information, please visit The Dorset Art Prize website page (https://www.thecollege.co.uk/college/about-us/events/the-dorset-art-prize)
The Dorset Art Prize is supported by BCP Council and Dorset Chamber.