the brava 2026

Native American & First Nations Artist Award 

The BRAVA Award for Native American & First Nations Artist supports the work of contemporary visual artists and craftspeople who self-identify as Native American and/or First Nations. The award is open to artists working in a variety of disciplines, including but not limited to painting, sculpture, weaving, textile, carving, printmaking, photography, video, performance art, beading, installation, pottery, and mixed media or collaborative projects. Artists may work in both contemporary and traditional styles and content.

Artists' Books Award 

The BRAVA Award for Artists’ Books Artists supports contemporary visual artists and craftspeople working in the genre of Artists’ Books. These works of art incorporate the concept of the book in various ways, often inviting the user to engage with them over time through interpretation, manipulation, or storytelling. Artist’s books can be small edition works or unique one-of-a-kind objects. This award is open to artists working in a range of media, including but not limited to fiber/textile, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, installation, ceramics, and mixed-media or collaborative projects.

Emerging Artist Award 

This award supports the work of contemporary visual artists and craftspeople from the Puget Sound region who are at an early stage of their professional career. The BRAVA Award for Emerging Artist is focused on artists who have seen early recognition of their visual arts practice, are serious about their pursuit of a career in visual arts, and whose work is deemed promising by a jury. The BRAVA Award for Emerging Artist is open to artists working in media including but not limited to fiber/textile, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, video, performance art, installation, ceramics, and mixed-media or collaborative projects.

2026 Special Choice Award: Ceramics Artist Award

The BRAVA Award for Ceramic Artists supports contemporary visual artists and craftspeople whose primary practice centers on clay and ceramic processes. This award recognizes artists working across functional, sculptural, and conceptual approaches, including wheel-thrown, hand-built, slip-cast, experimental, or interdisciplinary ceramic work. Artists may explore traditional techniques, contemporary forms, or innovative uses of material, scale, surface, and firing methods, demonstrating technical mastery alongside a distinct artistic voice.