Submissions open for COAL Prize

The COAL Prize 2026 invites artists worldwide to “defend the night” as a shared ecological and cultural common good. Organized by COAL, the prize awards €12,000 to one artist along with a residency at Domaine de Belval, plus additional grants and residencies. Projects must explore ecological relationships with darkness and be submitted by 28 April 2026.

Overview

The COAL Prize is an international art award dedicated to supporting artistic projects that address ecological challenges.

The 2026 theme centers on:

• Defending the night as a common good
• Recognizing darkness as an ecological necessity
• Relearning relationships with shadows and nocturnal rhythms
• Creating art with and about the night
• Promoting an ecology of rhythms aligned with the natural environment

The prize supports projects that combine artistic excellence with ecological relevance.

Application deadline: 28 April 2026 at 23:59
Submission format: Single PDF file uploaded to the COAL server

What Does “Defending the Night” Mean?

This edition frames the night as:

• A major ecological issue for biodiversity regeneration
• A refuge for human and non-human life
• A cultural and poetic space
• A right to rest and darkness
• A diversity of languages and expressions

Projects may address light pollution, nocturnal ecosystems, sleep and social rhythms, cultural perceptions of darkness, or symbolic interpretations of the night.

Prize Structure and Funding

Main COAL Prize

• €12,000 grant
• Creative residency at Domaine de Belval
• Scientific and educational support from
– Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature
– Domaine de Belval teams

Additional Awards

• €3,000 Special Jury Prize
• Residency via the Ateliers Médicis mention in Clichy-sous-Bois and Montfermeil, connected to the regional forest of Bondy
• €2,000 grant and exhibition invitation at Centre Wallonie-Bruxelles/Paris (Le Vaisseau)

The grant supports project development and does not cover full production costs.

Who Is Eligible?

The call is open internationally to artists who:

• Submit a project aligned with the 2026 theme
• Demonstrate strong artistic value and originality
• Address ecological issues meaningfully
• Present a feasible and well-structured proposal
• Apply before the deadline

Projects may be in progress or forthcoming.

Evaluation Criteria

Projects are assessed based on:

1. Artistic quality and originality

2. Ecological relevance and thematic alignment

3. Pedagogical value

4. Social and participatory dimensions

5. Eco-design principles

6. Feasibility and clarity of budget

7. Collaboration with conservation actors

Selection Process:

• A professional selection committee nominates 10 artists
• A final jury of partner organizations and art/ecology experts selects winners

How to Apply – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare Your Project Concept

Clearly define:

• Artistic intent
• Relationship to the theme “Defending the Night”
• Ecological impact
• Technical approach
• Feasibility timeline

Step 2: Compile Required Materials

Submit one single PDF file including:

• Completed application form
• Detailed project description
• Technical details
• Budget estimate
• At least two high-definition visuals
• Curriculum vitae
• Artistic portfolio

Step 3: Submit Before Deadline

• Upload PDF to the COAL server
• Deadline: 28 April 2026 at 23:59

Late submissions are not accepted.

Rights and Intellectual Property

By applying:

• Artists retain ownership of their work
• Applicants authorize COAL and its partners to reproduce and disseminate project elements for communication and promotional purposes if nominated

Why This Prize Matters

1. Connects Art and Ecology
   The COAL Prize strengthens dialogue between artistic creation and environmental action.

2. Elevates Ecological Narratives
   It encourages creative storytelling around climate, biodiversity, and ecological rhythms.

3. Supports Emerging and Established Artists
   Financial support and residencies help advance project development.

4. Promotes Interdisciplinary Collaboration
   Artists work alongside scientists, educators, and conservation actors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Weak Thematic Connection
   Ensure the project clearly addresses the ecological significance of night and darkness.

2. Incomplete Documentation
   All required materials must be included in one single PDF.

3. Unrealistic Budget
   Provide a clear and feasible financial estimate.

4. Ignoring Eco-Design
   Demonstrate sustainable production methods where relevant.

5. Missing the Deadline
   Submissions must be uploaded before 23:59 on 28 April 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who organizes the COAL Prize?

The prize is organized by COAL, a French association dedicated to art and ecology.

2. How much is the main prize?

€12,000 plus a residency at Domaine de Belval.

3. Can international artists apply?

Yes. The call is open internationally.

4. Does the grant cover full production costs?

No. It is intended as development support only.

5. How many artists are shortlisted?

Ten artists are nominated by the selection committee before final jury decisions.

6. What is the application format?

A single PDF file containing all required documents.

7. What is the submission deadline?

28 April 2026 at 23:59.

Conclusion

The COAL Prize 2026 invites artists worldwide to rethink humanity’s relationship with darkness and defend the night as an ecological and cultural necessity. With significant financial support, residencies, and exhibition opportunities, the prize offers a strong platform for impactful art at the intersection of creativity and environmental action.

Artists with innovative, feasible, and ecologically grounded projects should prepare their submission carefully and apply before 28 April 2026.