This year marks a milestone: 154 emerging artists from five countries – Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Finland, and Sweden – are competing with 299 artworks, reflecting the vibrant and evolving landscape of the Nordic-Baltic art scene.
Now more than ever, art offers a way to navigate uncertainty and imagine new futures. From painting and drawing to installation, video, and performance, this year’s finalists show how the region’s young artists are responding to global challenges with sensitivity, irony, and bold experimentation.
A Decade of Emerging Talent
Founded in 2016 by the Nordic Baltic Art Center NOBA, the Award has grown into the largest contemporary art competition in Northern Europe, connecting art academies, curators, and collectors across the region. Over the past decade, it has provided a launchpad for hundreds of artists who have gone on to exhibit internationally and redefine how Nordic-Baltic art is perceived globally.
This year’s participants represent leading art institutions: the Estonian Academy of Arts, Pallas University of Applied Sciences, Art Academy of Latvia, Vilnius Academy of Arts, Uniarts Helsinki, Turku University of Applied Sciences, Konstfack University of Arts, Crafts and Design, and for the first time, the Umeå Academy of Fine Arts.
How to Vote
Until November 2, visitors can explore all participating artworks online and vote for up to five favorites. The Public Choice Award (500 €) will go to the artist whose work receives the most votes. Many artworks are also available for purchase, offering collectors and art lovers a chance to invest in tomorrow’s talent while supporting their creative journey.
Why It Matters
As the world faces cultural and ecological shifts, the Nordic & Baltic Young Artist Award stands out for uniting a region through creativity and collaboration. It’s not just a competition—it’s a collective reflection on how art can reshape perception and build bridges across borders.
Discover the artists shaping the future of Northern European art — and make your voice count at NOBA.ac/award.
International Jury & Awards
Alongside the Public Choice Award, the Grand Prix (2,000 €) and Painting Award (1,000 €) will be decided by an international jury of art professionals, including:
Anne Klontz (Konstfack), Professor Andris Vītoliņš (Art Academy of Latvia), Kaisa Maasik (Estonian Academy of Arts), Margus Meinart (Pallas University of Applied Sciences), Ieva Skauronė (Vilnius Academy of Arts), Harri Monni and Anni Anttonen (Uniarts Helsinki), Professor Per Nilsson (Umeå Academy of Fine Arts), Taina Erävaara (Turku University of Applied Sciences), and Andra Orn (founder of NOBA.ac).
