Eileen Lewenstein Prize for Critical Writing

Overview

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

We 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

Judging

Entries will be reviewed by a panel of five judges drawn from across the ceramics and publishing sectors, including representatives from partner organisations and independent voices.

The panel will assess submissions on:

• Quality of thinking and originality
• Clarity and strength of argument
• Contribution to critical discussion in the field

Conditions of entry

• Only one entry per person
• Submissions must be the applicant’s own original work
• Essays must not have been previously published
• The use of AI-generated text is not permitted
• The judges’ decision is final