Final Call for Wexford Artists to Enter National Portrait Prize Competitions

Artists across County Wexford are being encouraged to submit their work to the prestigious AIB Portrait Prize and AIB Young Portrait Prize 2026 before entries close on Friday, July 3.

The National Gallery of Ireland has issued a final call for applications to the annual competitions, which celebrate contemporary portraiture and showcase artistic talent from across Ireland and among Irish artists living abroad.

The AIB Portrait Prize is open to artists working in all media and offers a top prize of €15,000, along with a €5,000 commission to create a new work for the National Portrait Collection. Two highly commended awards of €1,500 will also be presented.

Meanwhile, the AIB Young Portrait Prize is open to artists aged 18 and under, with categories for children and young people ranging from six years old and under to 16–18 years. Winners will receive cash prizes and bespoke art boxes.

Dr Caroline Campbell, Director of the National Gallery of Ireland, said the competitions aim to showcase Irish artistic talent and encourage an interest in contemporary portraiture.

The shortlisted works will go on display at the National Gallery of Ireland from November 14, 2026, to March 14, 2027, before touring to Galway Arts Centre and Limerick City Gallery of Art.

Applications remain open until 10pm on Friday, July 3, and can be submitted through the National Gallery of Ireland website.