SGG

The Shape of Thought Prize

Celebrating excellence in abstract and conceptual art.

Hosted by Strydom-Graves Gallery, The Shape of Thought Prize is open to South African artists working in 2D or 3D formats. The prize invites submissions that challenge conventional forms and express bold, thought-provoking ideas.

Judging is based on three equally weighted criteria: conceptual strength, originality, and technical execution.

First Prize: R20,000

Highly Commended Awards:

  • 4 × R300 Curate Collective vouchers
  • 5 × R500 Art Shed materials vouchers
  • 5 × R200 Digital Lab printing credits
  • 5 × R200 Framing Studio custom framing vouchers

Join us in recognising artworks that explore the edges of perception, imagination, and meaning.

Key Dates

  • Entries Open: 14 April – 11 July 2025
  • Finalists Notified: 25 July 2025
  • Finalists Announced: 21 August 2025
  • Winner Announced: 30 August 2025
  • Exhibition Dates: 29 August – 13 September 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I enter more than one artwork?
Yes. Each artwork must include its own image, statement, and entry fee.

Are digital or AI-generated works allowed?
Digital artworks are welcome, but fully AI-generated works are not eligible.

Do artworks need to be for sale?
Yes. All works must be for sale. A 40% gallery commission applies.

What happens if my work isn’t selected as a finalist?
Eligible non-finalists will be considered for our online Salon des Refusés unless opted out on the entry form.

How are the winners chosen?
The R20,000 acquisitive prize is judged by a guest juror. Highly Commended prizes are selected by our partners based on the same criteria.

Do artworks need to be ready to hang?
Yes. Finalists must deliver installation-ready works with D-rings and hanging wire.

Who is responsible for shipping?
Artists must organise and cover freight. For Salon des Refusés sales, the artist ships directly to the gallery.

Terms and Conditions of Entry

Eligibility & Entry Requirements

  • All work must be original by the submitting artist.
  • Accepted formats: 2D and 3D mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media.
  • Fully AI-generated works are not eligible.
  • No offensive content will be accepted.
  • No entry limit. Multiple works allowed.
  • Works must be completed within the last 3 years.
  • Online entry must include:
    • Artist name, title, medium, dimensions, price
    • A 50-word statement
    • JPEG image (max 3MB)
    • R1,000 non-refundable entry fee
  • Deadline: 11:59pm, Friday 11 July 2025

Size Guidelines

  • 2D: Max 200 cm height or width (excluding frame)
  • 3D: Max 200 cm in any dimension
  • Multi-panel works allowed as one entry (within size limits)

Judging & Finalist Selection

  • Curated by the Strydom-Graves Gallery panel
  • Criteria: conceptual strength, originality, execution
  • 180–200 finalists will be selected
  • Finalists notified by 25 July 2025
  • All works must be ready to hang

Label the back of your work with:
Artist name, address, phone, title, year, medium, and price

Exhibition: 29 August – 13 September 2025

Note: While all care is taken, the gallery is not liable for damage. Works cannot be withdrawn once the exhibition opens.

Sales

  • All works must be for sale
  • 40% commission applies to sold works
  • Prices are fixed during the exhibition
  • The gallery may offer a 10% discount
  • Artists are paid within 40 days post-show

Freight & Collection

  • Artists cover all transport costs
  • Unsold works must be collected within 2 weeks
  • Original packaging reused where possible
  • Transport insurance is the artist’s responsibility
  • Uncollected works may be resold or donated after 1 month

Salon des Refusés

  • Non-finalists may appear in the online Salon des Refusés
  • Opt-out available on entry form
  • Only eligible works considered
  • Online exhibition: 29 August – 13 September 2025
  • Works must be available for sale
  • Gallery processes sales; artist ships sold works

Prizes & Judging

  • One R20,000 acquisitive prize selected by guest judge
  • Highly Commended awards selected by partners
  • Winning work becomes gallery property once prize is paid
  • All judging decisions are final

Final Terms

  • By entering, artists allow use of their work in promotion and catalogue
  • Entry implies full acceptance of these Terms & Conditions