Women painters with a focus on figurative realism are encouraged to submit their work for The Bennett Prize. The competition has increased its grand prize to $75,000, making it the largest award dedicated exclusively to women in this genre. Additionally, a $10,000 award will be presented to another finalist for the third time. Entries are open until September 19, 2026. Full rules are available for review.
Amy Werntz, an artist based in Dallas, Texas, claimed the fourth Bennett Prize in 2025, joining previous winners Shiqing Deng (2023), Ayana Ross (2021), and Aneka Ingold (2019). Werntz, who was a finalist in 2021, is preparing for her solo exhibition funded by the prize, which will begin touring nationally next year and will be featured at the Muskegon Museum of Art (MMA) in the summer of 2027.
Established by art patrons Steven Alan Bennett and Dr. Elaine Melotti Schmidt at the MMA, the prize seeks to uplift women figurative realist painters by providing them the means to develop their talents. The prize grants $37,500 annually over two years for the winner’s solo exhibition. Kirk Hallman, Executive Director of the MMA, expressed pride in supporting this initiative, highlighting the opportunity it provides for these artists to gain national exposure.
The Bennett Prize addresses disparities faced by women artists, who often encounter less representation in galleries and museums and receive lower compensation compared to their male counterparts. Past participants have experienced significant professional growth, with involvement in numerous exhibitions, awards, and increased social media presence.
Steven Alan Bennett emphasized the importance of art in providing clarity during challenging times and expressed anticipation for the insights from this year’s entrants. The prize jury comprises Julie Heffernan, Miranda Lash, Dr. Tiffany E. Barber, and founders Bennett and Schmidt. They will select 10 finalists, from whom the main prize and additional award recipients will be chosen. The competition is intended for women painters who have yet to achieve full professional acclaim, excluding hobbyists, students, and those with significant sales or previous awards.
Further details can be found at thebennettprize.com.
