TERAVARNA invites artists worldwide to enter its 12th Portrait Art Competition — a celebration of expression, emotion and individuality through portraiture in every medium and style.
Application deadline: December 31, 2025
The 12th Portrait Art Competition by TERAVARNA welcomes creative interpretations of portraiture from around the globe. From realistic studies to abstract visions, the competition seeks to capture the human spirit — and even extend it to the animal world — with originality, power and emotion. Winners receive cash prizes, digital certificates, global exposure and inclusion in TERAVARNA’s online showcase, viewed by thousands of art enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
Theme and eligibility
This year’s competition centers on the theme PORTRAIT, inviting artists to explore the depth of identity through form, color and texture. The contest is open internationally to all artists aged 18 and above. Both representational and conceptual works are encouraged, offering participants the chance to redefine what portraiture can be.
Accepted categories
All forms of visual art are welcome, including but not limited to:
- Painting & Mixed Media
- Photography & Digital Art
- Sculpture & 3D Installation
Key dates and timeline
- Now: Submissions open
- December 31, 2025 (11:59 PM, California Time): Deadline for entries
- January 5, 2026: Winner and cash prize notifications begin
- January 6–29, 2026: Exhibition of winning artworks
- January 21, 2026: Cash prize distribution begins
- January 30, 2026: Exhibition archives published
Awards and prizes
Up to $3,500 in total cash awards will be distributed to winning artists. All prizes are unrestricted and paid via PayPal. Categories include:
- First Prize: $300–$500
- Runner-Up Prize: $150–$350
- Merit Prize: $75–$250
- Talent Prize: $25–$150
- Honorable Mention & Finalist Awards
Each winner receives international recognition and visibility through TERAVARNA’s website and social channels.
Entry fee
The entry fee is $15 per artwork (non-refundable). Artists may submit any number of works; to enter more than 10 pieces, repeat the submission process. Payments can be made via PayPal or credit card.
Image submission guidelines
- Only JPEG or JPG files are accepted (up to 5 MB, preferably under 2 MB).
- Images must be cropped to show only the artwork, without borders or backgrounds.
- Photos must be clear, in focus, and taken from a front-facing view.
- AI-generated artworks are not accepted.
How to apply
- Select the number of artworks you wish to submit.
- Complete payment via PayPal or credit card.
- After payment, upload your images and artist details on the redirected submission page.
For full details and terms, visit the official website: TERAVARNA.
Why it matters
The TERAVARNA Portrait Art Competition has become a recognized platform for discovering new voices in figurative and expressive art. Its open, inclusive approach encourages creators to redefine portraiture as both personal narrative and global dialogue. By participating, artists gain visibility, credibility and connection within an expanding international art community.
For more global art competitions and open calls, explore our Open Calls section.
