Gateway to British Art Prize Application

The Gateway to British Art Prize is offered by the Yale Center for British Art in partnership with CT State at Gateway Community College. The program invites Gateway students from humanities disciplines to explore the Yale Center for British Art’s collection. Students select one artwork on view and write a 600-word response essay that offers fresh insights and personal perspectives. Winning essays receive a cash award, and students’ essays are published on the YCBA website and accompanied by a profile of each writer.

The program supports direct engagement with the collection by encouraging students to visit the YCBA on their own, or through class visits arranged with faculty. Our education staff is also made available to help with tips on research, how to write about art, and how to use close observational skills to decipher meaning.  

Learning Objectives:

  • Practice close observation and analysis of a work of art.
  • Strengthen critical thinking and research skills.
  • Develop persuasive writing on art.
  • Explore connections between art and personal experience. 

Awards:

  • First Place: $500
  • Second Place: $200
  • Two Runners Up: $100

Dates: September 1 – December 4, 2025

Prize launch: September 2
Essays Due: October 31
Judges review Essays: Nov 3-14
Prizes announced: November 21
Celebration: December 4

Please read our Terms and Conditions before submitting your work.

*To apply, you must be enrolled in at least one humanities class for the current semester. Previous winners are not eligible for entry.

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