The Spector Craft Prize for Emerging Artists
Investing in the next generation
The future of American craft is being made now. A new generation of artists is carrying its traditions forward—bringing fresh perspectives, transforming materials, and expanding what craft can be.
The Spector Craft Prize for Emerging Artists invests in five exceptional artists each year at a pivotal stage in their practice, providing a $10,000 award, mentorship, professional development, and participation in the Spector Craft Summit.
Timeline
November 1, 2026: Applications open
December 9, 2026 at 7:00PM EST: Information session
January 23, 2027 at 3:00PM EST: Information session
February 15, 2027: Applications close
September 2027: 2026-27 Prize Recipients announced
Information Sessions
Want to learn more about the Emerging Artists Prize and have your questions answered by our team? Register for our two information sessions during the following times:
Wednesday, December 9, 2026 at 7:00 PM EST
Saturday, January 23, 2027 at 3:00 PM EST
What the Prize Offers
$10,000 AWARD
Direct financial support for the artist and their practice.
MENTORSHIP
Opportunities to build relationships with established artists, curators, and others who can offer knowledge and guidance.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Practical resources and guidance to help artists navigate the opportunities and challenges of building a sustainable career.
THE SPECTOR CRAFT SUMMIT
Participation in the annual Summit, where recipients build relationships with fellow artists, established makers, institutions, and cultural leaders from across the country.
Selection Criteria
ARTISTIC EXCELLENCE
We look for a clear demonstration of technical skill and artistic vision, with the hand of the artist evident in the work.
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
We look for a unique artistic perspective that contributes to the evolving landscape of American craft, drawing on community, place, personal experience, or through innovative approaches to materials, techniques, and processes, with an intentional engagement with tradition.
GROWTH POTENTIAL
We look for artists with a strong foundation whose practice continues to develop, who have not yet received widespread recognition, and whose careers could be meaningfully advanced by the Prize at this moment.
MISSION ALIGNMENT
We look for artists whose work brings fresh perspectives and expands the possibilities of craft, combining tradition and innovation in ways that help shape what American craft means today.
Eligibility
Artists age 21 and older with seven years or less of dedicated studio practice who are living and working in the United States are eligible to apply.
Please review the Rules of Entry for complete eligibility requirements.
Questions about eligibility?
Contact info@spectorcraftprize.org.
Selection Process
The Spector Craft Prize for Emerging Artists is a juried award. Recipients are selected by a jury of artists, curators, scholars, designers, and leaders in the field.