The Bennett Prize
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Our founders Steven Alan Bennett and Dr. Elaine Melotti Schmidt are avid supporters of figurative realist paintings of women by women artists. First, while women painters have produced remarkable work for centuries, they have not received the same degree of acceptance as their male counterparts. Second, in addition to the gender discrimination that has prevailed against women painters, over the co
06/18/2026
“It has given me a tremendous boost of confidence at a time when I needed it. It has helped me to feel connected to a community of artists, and supported by Steven and Elaine, who have become such important patrons of women artists.”
-Haley Hasler, Bennett Prize® 3 finalist
Art can be solitary, but it does not have to be isolating. Recognition builds confidence, and The Bennett Prize® fosters a community of women painters and a growing network of alumnae who connect, support, and inspire one another, strengthening both individual practices and the field as a whole.
Go to thebennettprize.org/news-items/why-should-you-apply to learn more.
Image: Haley Hasler (Bennett Prize® 3 finalist), Fall of Man©, 2024, oil on canvas, 60 x 48 inches. Round 3 Bennett Prize® finalists (Deng Shqing, Laura Karetzky, Linda Infante Lyons, Monica Ikegwu, Haley Hasler, Sara Lee Hughes, Kyla Zoe Rafert, Ruth Dealy, Mayumi Nakao, Ronna S. Harris).
06/10/2026
The human figure has long been a way for artists to explore identity, experience, and connection. As the field continues to evolve, so do the stories being told—and the people telling them.
We're interested in the conversations that emerge when a wider range of voices and lived experiences are represented in contemporary painting. What artists, works, or ideas have expanded your understanding of the figure and its possibilities?
We look forward to hearing your thoughts and celebrating the richness of contemporary figurative art throughout the month.
Image: Chloe Chiasson (Bennett Prize® 2 finalist), The Corner Store©, 2023, Mixed media installation with oil, acrylic, wood, plaster, Plexiglass, vinyl, chain, LEDs, metal, resin, paper mache, ink, matches, aluminum on shaped panels, 132 x 85 x 53 inches.
06/08/2026
“The Bennett Prize gave me freedom of both creativity and time to work on my art.” - Deng Shiqing, winner of The Bennett Prize® 3
Time is one of the most valuable resources an artist can receive. With it comes the space to take risks, deepen practice and fully commit to the work. The Bennett Prize creates that space for women painters ready to push their work further.
Learn more on why you should apply at thebennettprize.org/news-items/why-should-you-apply
Images: Deng Shiqing in her studio.
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