The AIB Portrait Prize and AIB Young Portrait Prize 2025 are now open for submissions, inviting artists of all ages and disciplines to participate in this prestigious celebration of contemporary portraiture. Organized by the National Gallery of Ireland, these competitions aim to showcase the diversity and talent within Irish art, both domestically and among the diaspora.

Celebrating Artistic Excellence

The AIB Portrait Prize is open to artists working in all media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and video. It welcomes entries from artists residing in Ireland and Irish artists living abroad. The competition seeks to highlight contemporary portraiture and contribute to the evolving National Portrait Collection. The winner will receive a cash prize of €15,000 and a commission worth €5,000 to produce a new work for inclusion in the national collection. Additionally, two highly commended works will each receive €1,500.

Dr. Caroline Campbell, Director of the National Gallery of Ireland, emphasized the importance of these prizes:

“The AIB Portrait Prize and AIB Young Portrait Prize provide a platform to spotlight the exceptional talent of Irish portrait artists while encouraging the public to engage with modern Irish portraiture.”

Nurturing Young Talent

The AIB Young Portrait Prize aims to foster creativity and self-expression among young artists aged 18 and under. It is divided into four age categories: 6 and under, 7–11, 12–15, and 16–18. Winners in each category, as well as an overall winner, will be selected from a shortlist of works. Prizes include a bespoke art box and a cash prize.

Last year, two young artists from County Wicklow achieved notable success. Arann McCormack from Greystones received a highly commended prize for her piece “I Never Promised You a Rose Garden,” which explored the complex relationship young women have with themselves during adolescence. Meanwhile, five-year-old Allanah McDonald Brown from Arklow won in the 6 and under category for her portrait “Allanah the Mermaid.”

Submission Details

Entries for both competitions must be submitted online via the National Gallery of Ireland’s website. The deadline for submissions is 10pm (IST) on Friday, July 4, 2025. An exhibition featuring the shortlisted works will be held at the National Gallery from November 8, 2025, to March 15, 2026.

Encouraging Participation

Artists from all regions are encouraged to participate, following the inspiring achievements of previous winners. The competitions not only offer substantial prizes but also provide artists with the opportunity to have their work exhibited at a national level, gaining exposure and recognition.

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