The prize honours artists around the world who promote human rights and free expression and are denied their freedom to create.

The inaugural prize has been divided into three categories. The main prize of 50,000 US dollars is open to artists – individuals or artistic groups – in all creative fields, including the visual and performing arts, music, design and literature.

The Youth Prize is for artists aged 18 or younger, and carries a 25,000 US dollars award.

The 25,000 US dollars Imprisoned Artists Prize is for artists currently jailed because of their work.

Using art in decence of human rights
“This is not an art prize,” warn the organisers. “It will not simply judge the skill of the artist but recognise how the artist has used their work in speaking out in defence of human rights and freedom of expression.”

ArtVenture is a philanthropic organisation based in Singapore which seeks to harness art and culture to improve lives in meaningful ways. Article 19 is a human rights organisation which defends and promotes freedom of expression and freedom of information all over the world. It was established in 1987 and works with more than 80 implementing partners across the globe.

Who should be nominated for the prizes?
Submissions are being accepted now, and the deadline for entries is 31 October 2008.

For more information and to register, visit the ArtVenture Freedom to Create Prize website at: freedomtocreateprize.com