The Annual Art Award of Latvia stands as a testament to the vital role of art in our culture – its power to unite, inspire, and shape our understanding of the world we live in. As the most significant annual recognition in the Latvian visual arts sector, the award aims to spotlight the year’s most notable events and figures, identify emerging trends, and foster the development of artistic processes. More than just a mark of distinction, it serves as a platform for engaging a broader audience and encouraging dialogue between art and society.

The award honours artists and art professionals who actively engage with, research, or contribute to the Latvian art scene. Prizes are given for exhibitions, artworks, publications, and other contributions that were realised, exhibited, or published during the eligible year. In evaluating submissions, the jury considers factors such as inclusivity regarding various social groups, sustainability, and the capacity of the work to provoke thought and co-learning. Judging criteria include: quality of content and form, contemporary relevance, societal resonance, originality, authenticity, and innovation. The evaluation process encompasses the entire Baltic region.

Initiated and founded by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Latvia, the award is organised by Collective WW. The inaugural award ceremony will take place in the second half of April 2026. Winners in each category will receive a cash prize along with a specially designed award sculpture, created by artist Krišs Salmanis.

To ensure a comprehensive review of artistic processes, a wide-ranging overview of exhibitions, publications, and other art-related events is being compiled. At the same time, everyone is invited to submit information about art activities, particularly about projects abroad involving Latvian artists.