VMFA Aaron Siskind Award for Photography 2026

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts' award for excellence in contemporary photography, honouring Aaron Siskind's legacy and the Aaron Siskind Foundation's Individual Photographer's Fellowship. Two artists each receive an unrestricted prize of $25,000, intended to support the completion of a meaningful body of work — the continuation or finalization of a photographic series, the development of an exhibition, monograph or book, or another major creative endeavour. The award supports early- to mid-career artists as well as established photographers with a sustained practice who may not yet have received significant critical recognition. Applicants submit a portfolio of 10 to 15 images with a CV and artist statement, hosted on Picter. Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents at least 18 years old for whom photography is a primary vocation.