Who Are We Looking For?
The Emerging Artist Award recognizes a colored pencil artist whose work shows exciting promise, a distinct point of view, and the courage to keep growing. It offers encouragement as you establish or expand your colored pencil practice and take your next creative step.
Imagine what a little support and recognition could help you pursue next. Share the work you’re proud of, the questions you’re exploring, and where you hope your colored pencil journey will lead. These examples illustrate possible artistic goals, not specific requirements used for the award selection.
Eligibility
• You must be at least 18 years old.
• Individual artists are welcome; groups and corporations are not eligible.
• Applicants from anywhere in the world are welcome.
• You should have a genuine interest in and connection to colored pencil art.
• This award is for artists developing their colored pencil practice who are not yet professionally established in the medium. “Emerging” refers to your artistic development, not your age.
• Established professional colored pencil instructors and authors are not eligible, regardless of where they teach or publish. Occasional teaching, a magazine feature, or a few artwork sales do not automatically disqualify you.
Please note:
• Current employees and contractors in ongoing paid staff roles for annkullberg.com are not eligible.
• The judging panel will include at least two independent members from beyond our usual colored pencil network. Existing relationships receive no preference, and judges agree to recuse themselves if they have a close personal or professional relationship with an applicant.
What Will the Judges Consider?
Our judging panel will consider the following criteria when selecting the recipient(s):
• Artistic potential: The promise and possibilities shown in your colored pencil work.
• Personal expression: The individuality and ideas coming through in your artwork.
• Commitment to learning: Your dedication to practicing, exploring and developing your skills.
• Goals for growth: What you hope to learn or accomplish next.
• Demonstrated need: How the award could help you overcome barriers and move forward as an artist.
How to apply
Applications open from Feb. 17 to April 28, 2027. Here’s what we'll ask for, so you can start to prepare:
1
Tell us your story
We'll ask you to share your background and experience with colored pencil as a medium for your artistic expression.
2
Share your artwork
Prepare approximately 3-5 best examples of your colored pencil artwork, plus a short video introducing yourself and your work (3 minutes or less).
3
Share your next step
Tell us how you are developing as an artist, what your goals are, and how this award would help you take your next step.
Applications open February 17, 2027Explore the other awards
$1,500 x 2
Community Impact Awards ›
Recognition for the difference you’re already making.
Explore the Community Impact Award$100 + $50 gift card
People’s Choice Theme Show Awards ›
Share your colored pencil artwork in a themed online show and let the community choose a favorite.
Explore the People’s Choice ShowStay Close to the Spark
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Since 1999, Ann Kullberg and her team have been helping colored pencil artists learn, grow, and connect through COLOR Magazine, books, tutorials, live workshops, and more.
Sparks of Color is a natural extension of what we've always loved most: uplifting artists. We'd love for you to explore our little corner of the colored pencil world!
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© 2027 annkullberg.com.