The Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts has announced the 23 semifinalists for the 2026 Janet & Walter Sondheim Art Prize, one of the region’s most prestigious contemporary art awards. The annual competition highlights emerging and established artists connected to the Baltimore area
The artist or collaborative team chosen as the winner will receive a generous award of $30,000.
This year marks the 21st anniversary of the Sondheim Art Prize, an initiative organized by Create Baltimore (formerly known as the Baltimore Office of Promotion & the Arts, or BOPA) in collaboration with the Walters Art Museum, and backed by the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC).
The list of semifinalists includes a diverse range of talent: Sarina Angell, Mollye Bendell, Thea Canlas, Leigh Davis, Anna Divinagracia, Brandon Donahue-Shipp, Elliot Doughtie, Emily Francisco, Curran Hatleberg, Chung-Wei Huang, Tae Hwang, Noël Kassewitz, Mo Kessler, Michelle Shenyu Li, Noah McWilliams, Daniela Mileykovsky, Emily Hanako Momohara, Danni O’Brien, David Page, Kristin Putchinski, Edgar Reyes, Joana Stillwell, and Pamela J. Thompson.
These semifinalists have been encouraged to submit an extended portfolio showcasing up to 30 images or time-based works, along with a detailed proposal explaining how they would utilize the fellowship if selected.
A panel of jurors—comprised of Lauren Haynes, Jinny Khanduja, and Shellyne—will then evaluate the submissions and select five finalists, whose works will be displayed at the Walters Art Museum from June through September. Each finalist will also receive a stipend of $3,000.
Semifinalists who do not advance to the finalist stage will be given the opportunity to showcase their work at Artscape 2026, scheduled for Memorial Day weekend, May 23 and 24.
Past recipients of this award have represented a wide array of artistic expressions. Notably, last year’s laureate, Amanda Leigh Burnham, was recognized for her stunning three-dimensional collages, which captivated jurors with their dynamic presence.
This prestigious prize pays tribute to Janet and Walter Sondheim, influential figures in the arts and cultural sectors. Janet was a dancer with the Denishawn Dancers, while her husband, Walter, played a vital role in the development of Charles Center and the Inner Harbor, serving as a senior advisor to the Greater Baltimore Committee.
