UK-based artists are invited to apply for The Dover Prize 2025 – a prestigious two-year bursary worth £10,000, offering visual artists and creative practitioners the time and support to develop their work in bold new directions.
The prize is open to individuals, pairs, or artist collectives from across the UK. Whether applicants wish to deepen their current practice or embark on experimental paths, The Dover Prize provides the time and resources needed – culminating in a debut exhibition in Darlington.
The Dover Prize was founded in 1998 by Peggy Nonhebel (née Dover) to promote creative expression and arts education in Darlington and the surrounding North East. Now in its 26th year, it has become a cornerstone of artistic opportunity in the region.
Point North (formerly County Durham Community Foundation) oversees the administration of the prize. Over the years, more than £85,000 has been awarded to 20+ artists, fostering a growing culture of creative exploration in the area.
The winning applicant will receive £10,000 over two years, with full support to test new ideas, explore materials, form collaborations and prepare for a major solo exhibition in Darlington, set for 2027.
The bursary may be used flexibly – whether for research trips, training, workshops, materials or new equipment – provided applicants can demonstrate how it will help progress their artistic development.
Eligible applicants include practitioners in visual fields such as painting, sculpture, performance, photography, ceramics, printmaking, film, installation and digital art. Entrants must be UK residents and should meet a minimum of three professional benchmarks, such as exhibiting work or completing residencies.
The current Dover Prize holder is artist Rebecca Moss, selected from over 320 applicants for her humorous and interactive approach to public art.
She shared: “I am thrilled to win The Dover Prize at a very timely moment in my work and life. With this prize I plan to explore Darlington’s industrial heritage, thinking about pre-electronic power and energy, and drawing upon my interest in mechanisms that are activated by water. I still can’t believe I won, and I am so grateful for this award.”
Sharon Gollan, Head of Grants at Point North, said: “We’re always so excited to launch The Dover Prize and invite creative practitioners from across the UK to dream big. This prize is about time, space and ambition, it’s a chance for artists to develop bold new work that will be shared in Darlington.
“We’re also delighted to welcome this year’s judging panel, Phil Gatenby, Vicky Holbrough, Matthew Jarratt, Helen Marriage, Dr. Alistair Robinson, Vicky Sturrs and Stephen Wiper, who each bring incredible insight and passion for the arts. I can’t wait to see what ideas come forward this year.”
Applications close at 11:59pm (BST) on Sunday 1st. Submissions should be made via www.thedoverprize.co.uk.
