For the second year in a row, South Arts is accepting entries for the Southern Prize and State Fellowships, offering nine individual artists cash awards up to $30,000; the contest is open to artists living in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

One fellowship with a cash prize of $5,000 will be awarded to an individual artist in each state. The state fellows will then be in competition for the Southern Prize of an additional $25,000 and a finalist prize of $10,000. The Southern Prize winner also receives a two-week residency at The Hambidge Center for Creative Arts and Sciences.

“Artists in our region are producing some of the most creative work in our country,” said Susie Surkamer, executive director of South Arts. “From traditional quilting to bleeding-edge 3D printing sculptures to dynamic installations driving conversations on social justice, southern artists are creating important, extraordinary works.”

Artists may apply for the Southern Prize until December 15 through South Arts’ website, www.southarts.org. Artists specializing in crafts, drawing, experimental, painting, photography, sculpture, mixed media, and multidisciplinary styles are eligible.

“The Southern Prize and State Fellowships impact the careers and lives of artists in our region,” continued Surkamer. “Previous winners have used their awards to purchase materials to create new work, enroll in residency programs, and secure studio space. The funds are unrestricted, so the winning artists can spend the awards on whatever they may need.”

A panel of national judges will adjudicate submissions, and the state fellowships will be awarded at a ceremony which will be held at the Contemporary Arts Center in New Orleans, LA in April.

The Southern Prize is supported by South Arts’ member state arts agencies, foundation, businesses, and individuals, and powered by The Hambidge Center. South Arts also receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts.