SALISBURY, Maryland – The City of Salisbury is excited to announce that the application period is now open for the 2026 Salisbury Prize public art competition, with submissions due by 11:59 PM EST on January 30, 2026. Thanks to support from the Maryland State Arts Council, this annual competition will award $10,000 to the winning artist, along with an additional stipend of up to $5,000 for materials reimbursement.
The 2026 Salisbury Prize installation will replace the current kiosk area in front of the Salisbury-Wicomico Government Office Building, located at 125 North Division Street. This highly visible space serves as a central hub for civic engagement and community interaction. Artists are encouraged to reflect Salisbury’s history, heritage, and cultural identity in their concepts.
“The Salisbury Prize is always something I look forward to each year. I’m grateful to everyone involved in making it such a meaningful tradition.”
– Mayor Randolph J. Taylor
The competition is open to Maryland-based artists, organizations, architects, engineers, and creative teams. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Salisbury-based artists are strongly encouraged to apply.
Reviews will take place in two rounds. In Round 1, all applications will be reviewed, and the top three candidates will each be awarded $500 to prepare an extended proposal. In Round 2, finalists will present their proposals in-person to the City’s Public Art Committee. Community feedback will also play a role in the final selection.
The winning design will become the property of the City of Salisbury, and the City will provide press opportunities and host an unveiling event upon or after installation.
To review the competition rules, criteria, and application form, please visit: https://salisbury.md/proposal-for-salisbury-prize
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