Prestigious UK painting prize opens call for entires

The ninth John Moores Painting Prize (China) officially launched on Thursday at the Bund 18 Jiushi Art Gallery in Shanghai, with a call for entries now open to artists nationwide. Co-hosted by the John Moores Painting Prize (China) and the Shanghai Jiushi Art Museum, the competition will culminate in a major exhibition of finalist and award-winning works at the Jiushi Art Museum in early 2027.

This year's edition marks the second consecutive term that the Jiushi Art Museum serves as a principal host. The museum aims to leverage this international platform to support the growth of young artists, discover new talent, and facilitate the global recognition of Chinese contemporary painting and ink art.

The event also serves to strengthen the 27-year sister-city relationship between Shanghai and Liverpool, UK, fostering deeper cultural exchange.

Founded in Liverpool in 1957, the John Moores Painting Prize is one of the UK's most prestigious painting competitions, with a legacy of launching the careers of world-renowned artists.