Eileen Lewenstein Prize for Critical Writing

Overview

The Eileen Lewenstein Prize supports new and emerging voices in writing on studio ceramics and clay art.

They are looking for original essays that bring fresh attention to subjects that have been overlooked, underexplored or newly emerging. This might include a close study of an object, maker or exhibition, or a broader reflection on history, theory, practice or context.

The prize is open to early-stage writers and researchers based in the UK.

The Prize

First Prize: £4,000

Publication in Ceramic Review (edited as required)

A paid writing commission from the British Ceramics Biennial

One year of mentorship

Two Runners-up: £500 each

Who can apply

This prize is open to:

Postgraduate students

Early career researchers

Museum or collection curators

Applicants must be:

Based in the UK

At an early stage in their writing or academic career

With limited prior publication in this field

What to submit

An original essay of 3,000 – 5,000 words

References should be included within the word count

Images may be included where relevant

Essays may address any aspect of studio ceramics or clay art. Topics might include:

Histories, movements and lineages

Contemporary practice and future directions

Aesthetics, philosophy or ethics

Audience experience and interpretation

Critical language and methods

Museums, galleries and collecting

Markets, value and cultural context

How to apply

Applications are submitted online via a simple form.

You will be asked to provide:

Your contact details

A short summary of your essay

Your essay as a PDF or Word document

To support fair assessment, entries are reviewed anonymously.

Please do not include your name within the essay document.

Key dates

Launch: 7 May 2026

Closing date: 28 February 2027

Shortlisting: March 2027

Announcement: May 2027 at Ceramic Art London

Learn More and Apply here.