This award, offered by the Len Lye Foundation, commemorates the artist Evan Webb (1952-2023) who was a key figure in the research and restoration of the work of New Zealand-born artist Len Lye.
Topics
The award seeks submissions in at least one of the following categories:
1) An unpublished research essay on some aspect of Len Lye’s sculpture, film-making, or work in other genres, or his ideas, or his aesthetics;
2) An unpublished research essay which makes an original contribution to knowledge of Lye’s life and career;
3) A proposal for research project in the Lye archive at the Lye Centre in New Plymouth;
4) An engineering design or research proposal which offers original suggestions for the restoration or building of a Lye sculpture. The proposal should aim at the improvement of existing procedures or contribute to the development of a work which existed only in the planning stage.
Who can apply
The award is aimed at artists, students, recent graduates or researchers with an interest in film or the visual arts.
Length of Essay
"The length of the essay or proposal is not a key factor - what the Foundation are looking for is soundly-based, original work".
Dates
Submissions: 5pm Friday August 28th 2026.
Results: Monday October 12th 2026.
The winner will be selected by a committee of the Foundation.
Other Considerations
The prize is annual, but the Len Lye Foundation will not be obliged to make an award if it considers than no application fully meets the criteria.
If its current resources and the quality of entries permit, the Foundation may also offer a second, similar award, or enter into further discussion with the winner about a proposed engineering project or plans for research at the Lye archive.
If a winning entry is later published, the Foundation would like a copy for its archive.
Where to send your Submission
Email Applications: Roger Horrocks: r.horrocks@xtra.co.nz.
Postal Submissions:
Len Lye Foundation
c/o New Plymouth District Council
Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
Private Bag 2025
New Plymouth 4340
Aotearoa New Zealand.