Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh State Lalit Kala Akademi announced the opening of applications for the 36th State Art Exhibition (2026–27) on Wednesday.Interested persons can apply from Oct 1 to 31, officials said, adding that 10 artists adjudged to have created outstanding works will each receive a cash prize of Rs 25,000, along with a certificate and memento.Entries are open across painting, drawing, sculpture, graphic art or printmaking, portraiture, wash painting, and traditional art.Tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh said, “Uttar Pradesh has a rich visual and traditional art heritage, but talent must also receive visibility, recognition and encouragement. The State Art Exhibition gives artists from different generations and districts an opportunity to present their work before a wider audience. Our priority is to ensure artists receive platforms, training, awards and institutional support to take their practice forward.”To ease participation for applicants outside the state capital, Akademi has introduced a two-tier screening process.Artists do not need to transport original pieces initially; they can submit two 5×7-inch colour photographs per work.A selection committee will screen the photos, and only shortlisted artists will be asked to dispatch original artworks to Lucknow for the jury’s final evaluation.Eligible entries must be created after Oct 1, 2025, and never previously exhibited at any state-level showcase.Paintings can measure up to 4×4 feet, while sculptures must be between 2×2 feet and 4×4×4 feet. The entry fee is Rs 300 per artist across a single chosen category.
