Our small but dedicated reading team carefully evaluates every blind submission based on its originality, creativity, subject matter, format, and overall presentation. To preserve the integrity of the blind review process, the identities of our readers remain confidential. Additionally, any reader who has a personal or professional relationship with an artist whose work has been randomly assigned to them is required to recuse themselves from evaluating that submission.
Every show is reviewed by at least two readers. Submissions that receive high scores or significantly different scores from the initial readers are assigned to a third reader to ensure each piece is evaluated fairly and thoroughly.
All creative teams will be notified of their semifinalist status no later than March 1 of each submission cycle.
Semifinalists are chosen both on the basis of numerical score and through additional deliberation. The highest scoring 5% of submissions automatically advance. Others are subject to deliberation from the Board. A maximum of 15% of submissions may be chosen as semifinalists, though there is no set number.
Semifinalists submit full materials (still blind) for their works, which are read and assessed by at least three new readers. The semifinalist assessment form is more detailed; readers are now judging the show in its entirety, and are encouraged to highlight both successes and opportunities for improvement.
Semifinalist teams will be notified of their finalist status no later than April 15 for each cycle.
Finalists are chosen by score, assessor comments and Board deliberation. Finalists meet with members of the Board online or in person. Generally, these discussions revolve around the journey of the show, next steps for the piece, and how a potential Award might be used. After these meetings, the Board deliberates on all finalists. This can be a long process or a short one, but it is always difficult. Winning shows are notified by June 15, with a public announcement before June 30.
