Lakeland Arts Associationaward

Florida Art Masters 2026: Live Portrait Competition

Who Can Apply: Artists age 18 or older anywhere in the United States, working in non-digital media
The Focus: A live portrait-painting competition with four preliminary heats and a Grand Finale in Lakeland, Florida
The Funding: The winner receives a $5,000 portrait commission; the total prize package is stated as over $5,000. Entry is $25, and no travel or participation stipend is stated.
Key Requirements: Submit one required portrait, up to two additional artworks, an artist statement, and website or social-media links

DeadlineMonday, August 31, 2026

AwardWinner receives a $5,000 portrait commission; total prize package is stated as over $5,000

Application fee$25

DurationFour-hour competition heats; competition dates late September through October

Program datesPreliminary heats in late September through October 2026; final exhibition dates listed as October 1–December 10, 2026

LocationLakeland, FL

ParticipationOn-site

Career stagesAll Stages

Disciplinesportrait painting, live painting

Application notesSixteen artists will be selected for four preliminary heats. Four heat winners advance to the Grand Finale at the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art. Competition portraits must remain available for sale through the subsequent exhibition; artists retain copyright.

Contactpresidentlkldartsassoc@gmail.com

Hosted by

Lakeland Arts Association

Organization based in Lakeland, FL