The COAL Prize 2026 invites artists worldwide to submit projects that engage with the ecological, cultural, and symbolic dimensions of “the night,” with a €12,000 grant and a residency awarded to the winning project.
11 April 2026
Open Call:
The COAL Prize 2026 is dedicated to the theme of “The Night,” inviting artists to explore night as a shared ecological and cultural resource. The call encourages projects that address darkness as a vital condition for biodiversity, rest, imagination, and alternative ways of perceiving and inhabiting the world. Artists are asked to “defend the night as a common good” and contribute to an “ecology of rhythms” through creative practice.
Institutional Context:
Founded in 2010, COAL (Coalition for Art and Sustainable Development) is a Paris-based organisation dedicated to promoting ecological awareness through artistic and cultural initiatives. The COAL Prize is its flagship programme, recognising artists whose work engages with environmental challenges and fosters new relationships between humans and the natural world.
Eligibility and Criteria:
The call is open internationally to artists working across disciplines. Projects may be in progress or forthcoming and must demonstrate strong artistic and ecological engagement.
Selection criteria include:
- Artistic quality and originality
- Relevance to ecological issues and the theme
- Pedagogical value and ability to raise awareness
- Social and participatory dimension
- Eco-design and feasibility
- Potential collaboration with environmental actors
Evaluation Process:
A professional selection committee will shortlist ten projects from all submissions. These nominated projects will then be evaluated by a jury composed of representatives from partner organisations and experts in art and ecology, who will award the COAL Prize and additional distinctions.
Practical Information:
- Deadline: 28 April 2026 (23:59)
- Main award: €12,000 grant + residency at Domaine de Belval
- Additional prizes include a €3,000 Special Jury Prize, residencies, and exhibition opportunities.
- Submission format: Single PDF (max 30 MB) including application form, project description, visuals, CV, and portfolio
- Submission platform: COAL online server
Applications and Queries:
Applications must be submitted online via the COAL platform before the deadline. Applicants should compile all required materials into a single PDF file following the specified naming convention. Further details and application forms are available on the official COAL website.
