The Norval Foundation is proud to announce the return of the Norval Student Art Prize (NSAP), an annual initiative dedicated to uplifting young creative voices across the country. As a leading art museum focused on African and South African art, Norval Foundation continues its commitment to making art accessible while nurturing the next generation of artists.
According to the Tokai-based foundation, the Norval Student Art Prize invites pupils from across the country to express their thoughts, hopes, and dreams for the future of South Africa through visual storytelling. The 2026 theme, DREAM, is inspired by Tanda rima, a powerful body of work by acclaimed artist Portia Zvavahera. Pupils are encouraged to explore themes of imagination, memory, and possibility in their submissions.
The competition is open to all pupils from Grades 1 to 12 and is structured to ensure fair evaluation across four categories:
- Foundation Phase (Grades 1–3)
- Intermediate Phase (Grades 4–6)
- Senior Phase (Grades 7–9)
- Further Education and Training (FET) Phase (Grades 10–12)
According to the Norval Foundation, a panel of judges will assess submissions using a point-based system, with criteria including relevance to the theme, conceptual depth, emotional impact, originality, and use of technique and materials.
Winning artworks will be featured in a dedicated exhibition at Norval Foundation, opening on Youth Day on Tuesday, June 16. This exhibition offers young artists a rare opportunity to present their work within a prominent museum context, affirming the importance of youth perspectives in shaping South Africa’s cultural future.
All aspiring applicants are expected to submit an original 2D artwork (A4 or A3), which may include drawing, painting, mixed media, or textural work. Each artwork must be accompanied by a short written or recorded narrative, providing insight into the concept and inspiration behind the work.
Applicants who can apply must be between the ages of 7 and 18 and are in school from Grade 1 to 12. Submissions by minors require consent from a parent or legal guardian, and all entries must include a completed application form.
Each category will award 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners:
- 1st Prize: Six months of extramural art lessons at the Peter Clarke Art Centre.
- 2nd and 3rd Prizes: Artsauce art packs and a Norval Foundation publication of choice.
Applications close on Saturday, May 24, with the exhibition opening on Tuesday, June 16.
Download your application by visiting the Norval Foundation.
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