The 2012 - 2013 edition of the International Emerging Artist Award (IEAA) is now open for participants. IEAA is the United Arab Emirates’ first contemporary art competition open for artists both from the UAE and internationally. Based in Dubai, the International Emerging Artist Award, previously known as Emergent Artist Award, was created with the vision to provide world class recognition for emerging artists and as a means to showcase their work by offering an international exhibition road show.

This year promises to be a thrilling competition with two categories open, the International Emerging Artist Award and the Emerging Emirati Artist Award with the honorific support of Her Highness Sheikha Wafa Hasher Al Maktoum. The winners of both award categories will see their artwork showcased in Dubai (April 2013 at Fn Designs), Singapore (May 2013, Vue Privée art gallery) Istanbul (July 2013, The Empire Project) and Marseille (Dec 2013, Galerie Gourvennec Ogor), the nominated European Capital of Culture for 2013. This international collaboration will provide an exceptional opportunity to any ambitious artist looking at building a credible reputation on the international art scene.

Award director Rebia Naim provided the following advice to particpants: "International Emerging Artist Award is seeking for artists whom are most able to create artwork in a personal and contemporary approach along with a coherent theme. Judges will value an innovative concept and will take into account the artists commitment to sincere practice that culminates a unique application."

Registration and submission should be completed online at www.emergingartistaward.com. The deadline is 31 December 2012, and all forms of media are accepted.

Submission is free for UAE students and Emirati participants. There is a submission fee of 45$/165.50 AED for all other participants, and for more information please email contact@emergingartistaward.com