Henry Art Gallery: The Brink Award 2013

The Brink Award is a biennial award for artists age 35 and under living and working in Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia. Established with the generous support of longtime Henry benefactors and Seattle philanthropists John and Shari Behnke, the award recognizes and supports young visual artists on "the brink" of outstanding professional careers, whose work demonstrates innovative perspectives and vision. The award is designed to provide financial support, increased exposure, and critical validation from an internationally recognized arts institution, with the aim of fostering the artistic and professional development of emerging artists.

To be eligible, an artist must currently live and work in Washington, Oregon, or British Columbia and be age 35 or younger as of June 7, 2013. Eligibility may be further defined by the completion of an academic degree within the last five years, a gallery exhibition, completion of a significant project or series, or some other significant professional or artistic milestone, subject to the judgment and discretion of the selection committee. Evidence of some professional achievement is required, but the artist does not need to possess a degree or an extensive record of exhibitions to receive consideration. An artist may already have gallery representation, provided he or she meets the other eligibility requirements.

The 2013 Brink Award program relies on nominations made by invited members of the regional arts community. A three-person jury will review and select finalists and the winner of the award. The winner will be announced in summer 2013 and will receive a $12,500 unrestricted cash award. The Henry Art Gallery will host an exhibition and produce a catalog of the winner's work in winter 2014. A work representative of the artist's current practice will be acquired for the museum's permanent collection. Work sample requirements: up to 15 images, up to 4 audio files, and up to 4 video files (minimum 1 total sample required).