First Plinth: Public Art Award 2027

The First Plinth: Public Art Award, run by the Royal Society of Sculptors, is a biennial competition that invites sculptors to develop a proposal for a large‑scale public artwork. Applicants must submit a CV, a brief practice statement, up to ten images of recent work, a 500‑word text proposal and optional supporting images. Five shortlisted artists receive a £1,000 development grant to produce a maquette (60 × 60 cm) and a full proposal. The winner is awarded £20,000 to fabricate the sculpture, mentorship from engineers, consultants and artists, and exhibition space on the sculpture terrace at Dora House in London, followed by a second venue. The award also includes a supporting exhibition at the Royal Society of Sculptors galleries and participation in a documentary film and public conversation. The competition is open to any artist working in three dimensions, of any age or nationality, who has not previously won a public‑art commission above £20,000 and has at least three years post‑graduate experience. An application fee applies (early‑bird and regular rates for members and non‑members). The deadline for submissions is 12 January 2027, with results announced on 24 April 2027.

£20,000 production grant for winner; £1,000 development grant for each finalist; mentorship from engineers, consultants and artists; exhibition on the sculpture terrace at Dora House and a second venue; participation in a documentary film and public conversation; supporting exhibition at Royal Society of Sculptors galleries.

Open to any artist working in three dimensions, any age or nationality; must not have previously won a public‑art commission over £20,000; minimum three years post‑graduate experience; applicants must pay a non‑refundable submission fee.