Southeastern US Artists Receive Over $100,000 in Prizes from ArtFields Awards

A small town in South Carolina, Lake City, is steadily making waves with its vibrant art scene in the Southern United States. Each year, the town hosts ArtFields, a festival that has grown significantly since its inception. Initially a nine-day celebration, the event is set to expand to a 17-day festival in 2026, offering increased opportunities for artists and art enthusiasts alike to engage deeply with the arts as Lake City transforms into a living gallery.

Now in its 14th year, ArtFields invites both emerging and established artists from across the Southeastern U.S. to apply for its renowned juried competition. Artists residing in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, or West Virginia can submit their work until November 1. This opportunity allows them to vie for more than $100,000 in cash prizes, with an entry fee of $25.

The 2026 festival, from April 10 to May 2, marks the first time ArtFields will span 17 days, nearly doubling its previous duration. This extension is designed to accommodate a growing audience, expanded programming, and increased participation opportunities for artists.

Since starting in 2013 as a concept to uplift artists in the South, ArtFields has become a key event in the region, awarding over $1 million in prize money and launching numerous artistic careers. The festival continues to thrive as a year-round organization dedicated to celebrating and supporting visual artists from the Southeast and beyond.

**Submission Timeline**

– Application Deadline: November 1, 2025
– Selected Artists Notified: December 2025
– Festival Dates: April 10–May 2, 2026

**Prizes**

– Grand Prize: $50,000
– Second Place: $25,000
– People’s Choice (2D): $12,500
– People’s Choice (3D): $12,500
– Merit Awards: $2,000 (Five awards)
– Southeastern Partner Awards: Exhibitions and professional opportunities

To learn more, visit [artfieldssc.org](https://bit.ly/48hbgBN).