The 2016-17 Observer/Anthony Burgess Prize for Arts Journalism is open for entries. Now in its fifth year, and with an increased total prize fund of £4000, the prize recognises imaginative, original, and thought-provoking arts journalism.

To enter, click the ‘Pay Now’ button below. Once your payment is processed you will be redirected to the entry form.

We’re looking for the best, previously unpublished writing on new work in the arts. If you’re a journalist, critic, blogger or unpublished writer interested in examining the contemporary arts, you could win £3000 and have your work published in print and online versions of the Observer.

The prize will be judged by writer and broadcaster Kevin Jackson, the Observer’s Arts Editor Sarah Donaldson, Senior Lecturer in English at King’s College Dr Lara Feigel, the Observer’s Associate Editor Robert McCrum, and the Director of the International Anthony Burgess Foundation, Andrew Biswell.

The judges are looking for the best previously unpublished 1500-word piece on new work in the arts. The winning piece will be a review of a book, film, concert, exhibition, ballet, play or TV show. The winner will be awarded £3,000 and have their essay published in the Observer, as well as being offered a one-to-one mentorship with senior editors at the Guardian and the Observer. Two runners-up will also receive £500 each.

The winner and runners-up will be commissioned to produce new writing about the arts for the Free Word Centre, who will also award a European travel grant to undertake research.

Entries will close on 30th November 2016. The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony at the Observer’s headquarters at King’s Place, London, in February 2017, held as part of the 2017 Anthony Burgess Centenary celebrations. The shortlist will be announced in January 2017. Entrants must be 18 or over. We welcome entries from around the world. Entry is just £10. You may submit as many entries as you wish (each entry must be paid for separately).

To enter, click the ‘Pay Now’ button below. Once your payment is processed you will be redirected to the entry form.

If you are not automatically redirected, click ‘Return to International Anthony Burgess Foundation’ when prompted. Contact us if you have any problems.

By entering the competition you agree to the terms and conditions. If you have any further questions, please contact us via email.

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