What Is the City of Maó Award?
The City of Maó Award is an annual art contest run by the local council. This year the focus is on sculpture, and the winning piece receives a cash prize of 3,500 euros plus the chance to show the work in a municipal exhibition space.
Who Can Take Part?
Any artist living in Menorca can enter, as long as the sculpture has never been shown in the Ciutat de Maó competition before and has not won any other contest. There are two categories:
- Main prize – open to all ages.
- Young‑artist mention – for creators under 35 years old, with a 1,000 euro award and a possible exhibition slot.
Prize Details
The main winner gets:
- 3,500 euros cash.
- An individual show in one of the city’s cultural rooms.
The under‑35 mention includes:
- 1,000 euros cash.
- Opportunity to display the work in a municipal hall.
Rules to Remember
- Maximum size: 170 cm high × 70 cm wide × 70 cm deep.
- Submissions must be original and never entered in the Ciutat de Maó prize before.
- Works cannot have received awards elsewhere.
- Deadline: July 24. Drop off your piece at the Municipal Culture Service office.
A Look at Recent Winners
In 2024 the sculpture award went to Anna Gutiérrez Moll for her piece “Alpinista.” Anna had already earned the under‑35 mention in 2021. Two years earlier, the young‑artist prize was won by Clàudia García Pons with “Ona negra.”
During odd‑numbered years the contest switches to painting. Last year’s painting award was shared ex aequo by Enric Servera and Rafael Timoner; Rafael currently displays his work in the Sant Antoni de Maó room.
How to Submit Your Work
- Make sure your sculpture fits the size limits.
- Prepare a short description (title, materials, inspiration).
- Bring the piece and the description to the Municipal Culture Service office before July 24.
- Fill out the entry form provided there.
Why It Matters
Entering the City of Maó Award gives young creators a chance to gain recognition, earn money, and see their work displayed in a public space. It also helps keep Menorca’s art scene lively and encourages artists to try new ideas.
Conclusion
The Ciutat de Maó sculpture contest is a great opportunity for teens and young adults to showcase their talent. With clear rules, solid prizes, and a supportive local audience, it’s worth preparing a piece and submitting it before the July deadline. Good luck, and enjoy the creative process!
Source
Images Credit: www.menorca.info