Fondazione François Schneider: Concorso per talenti contemporanei “Earth” – Prima edizione (Francia)

The François Schneider Foundation, located in Wattwiller (Alsace, France), is calling for applications for its newly launched contemporary art competition Contemporary Talents Competition with the theme ‘Earth’. Echoing the Water theme developed in Wattwiller, the François Schneider Foundation addresses the theme of Earth in a new competition held at the Pontigny Abbey estate in Burgundy. This subject is deeply linked to the history of the site, which will house a new contemporary art centre in the coming years. This first edition is open to sculptures and installations designed for outdoor display. The winning four to five artworks will form an initial artistic trail in the gardens of Pontigny Abbey, running alongside the renovation phase of the Domaine des Arts et de la Terre (2026–2028). Eligible artistic disciplines include sculpture and installation, and artists can be of any nationality. The prize is 15,000 EUR per winner for the acquisition of their artwork by the Foundation (or 8,000 EUR if the sculpture or installation has multiple editions). There will be an exhibition in spring 2027 of the winning artworks in the gardens of Pontigny Abbey, and the Foundation will cover all transportation cost of the artists for their travel to the exhibition and all the travel and insurance costs for the artworks.

Permanent installation in the landscaped grounds of Pontigny Abbey, acquisition into the François Schneider Foundation collection

Adult artists and collectives of any nationality with established visual arts practice. Only existing outdoor sculptures or installations on the theme of Earth. Must demonstrate professional artistic activity and regular exhibition history.