The Observer Anthony Burgess Prize for Arts Journalism:

The Observer Anthony Burgess Prize for Arts Journalism is an annual review-writing competition that aims to encourage new journalistic talent. The competition is now open for entries.

The Prize honours author Anthony Burgess’s three decades working as a critic for the Observer newspaper. His journalism earned him Critic of the Year at the National Press Awards. Trophies for the Observer Burgess Prize are stylised after this award.

The winning piece could be a review of an exhibition, a concert, a book, something from the world of television, radio or web, or anything in the arts that gives you the opportunity to write a lively and thoughtful piece.

The judges for 2026 are Anna Leszkiewicz, arts editor of the Observer, and Andrew Biswell, director of the International Anthony Burgess Foundation. This year’s guest judge is Susannah Clapp, the Observer’s theatre critic.

You have until the end of February 2026 to impress our judges. The first prize will be £3000, along with publication in The Observer. Two runners-up will receive £500 each.

Browse these pages to learn more about the Prize and how to enter for 2026.

Pictured: Anuj Mishra (2025 runner-up), Richard Pound (2025 winner), Damien Le-Hoste (2025 runner-up).jpg

Useful tips | Previous winners | Entry criteria | Terms and conditions | Enter the Prize now

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