ABOUT MOP CAP
THE VISION
The Magic of Persia Contemporary Art Prize (MOP CAP) is a global search for the next generation of contemporary Iranian artists; the majority of whom have had very limited exposure to the international art scene. The central goal of the prize is to provide an opportunity for gifted artists to gain international exposure, and through doing this, make a notable contribution to the long-term advancement of Iranian art and culture worldwide.
The first of its kind, MOP CAP aims to identify the most talented contemporary Iranian artists in the categories of Painting, Sculpture, Photography and New Media.
THE PROCESS
The prize is open to Iranian artists living and working both inside and outside of Iran; and in order to be considered, applicants must be nominated. The nomination panel is comprised of carefully selected gallerists, curators, artists, and critics who are familiar with the Iranian art scene. It is the role of these experts to nominate up to two artists that they feel are deserving of the award.
Nominees who meet the entry criteria are required to submit images of their work as well as a biography and artists' statement. These are then viewed online by the prestigious MOP CAP judging panel, who select a shortlist of 25 artists.
The shortlisted artists' works are exhibited at a space in Dubai the following March, where the judging panel meet to establish 5-10 finalists. This coincides with Art Dubai, and once the finalists are announced, the exhibition is opened to the public.
The work of the Finalists then travels to London where it is exhibited at the Royal College of Art (RCA) in October to coincide with the Frieze Art Fair. Once again the judges meet, this time in order to deliberate on the Prize Winner. On the final night of the exhibition an auction of all of the finalists' works is conducted by Christie's with the proceeds dedicated to sustaining the Magic of Persia Contemporary Art Prize.
Just preceding the auction, the Prize Winner is announced and awarded a solo-exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery the following October.