Magic of Persia announces an open call to Iranian artists around the world for their annual Contemporary Art Prize. Read below to learn about the Prize and eligibility requirements. Best of luck to all applicants!

THE VISION
The Magic of Persia Contemporary Art Prize (MOP CAP) is a worldwide search for the next generation of contemporary Iranian visual artists who have the potential to make a significant impact in their field. The goal of the prize is to provide an opportunity for emerging artists to gain international exposure, and to engage in artistic experimentation and cultural exchange. Through its archival material, including an online artist database and printed publications, MOP CAP aims to provide an educational interchange and contribute to the development of Iranian art and culture.

THE PROCESS
MOP CAP is open to young, emerging Iranian visual artists, living in and outside of Iran, through an online application. The profiles of all eligible entrants to the open call are reviewed by the MOP CAP Selection Committee, and a shortlist of up to 21 artists is compiled.

The MOP CAP Shortlist Exhibition in Dubai showcases works of the selected artists, at which time the Judging Panel meet to deliberate on, and choose, up to seven Finalists. Subsequently, an exhibition of the Finalists’ work is held in London, where the Judging Panel meet once again to select the MOP CAP Winner.

Throughout the process, the Selection Committee are available to the artists for guidance, should they request it.

THE PRIZE
The MOP CAP Winner receives a one-year mentorship with a London-based curator, resulting in a solo-project at a leading gallery space in London; as well as a three-month residency at the Delfina Foundation.

ENTRY CRITERIA

Artists must apply through an online open call via the MOP CAP website. The next open call will be held 1-31 July 2014.

Eligible applicants are:

of Iranian origin, living in or outside of Iran;
35 years or younger at the time of application;
yet to have had a solo-exhibition outside of their country of residence;
not represented by any galleries outside of Iran.
Each applicant must submit the following with their application, with all text submitted in English:

An up to date CV that details the exhibitions that you have participated in;
A biography, of up to 1,000 words, including education and personal history;
A video of up to 3 minutes in which you further discuss your practice (this video can be in either Farsi or English);
High resolution images or videos of between 3 – 5 artworks, including a description of each work.