The Paper Mirror Award


Excellence in Self-Portraiture



Caravaggio’s Narcissus, depicting the awestruck visage of the sensuous youth completely absorbed in the beauty of his reflection. In the words of Leon Alberti (1475-1564), “What is painting but the act of embracing… the surface of the pool?”
It has often been said that all art is a form of self-portrait. However, the highest form of self-portrait is that which the artists designates as such. The act of creating a self-portrait is the act of not just seeing, but recognizing oneself. The medium becomes a mirror, held in the hand of the artist, revealing what they see.

We celebrates this tradition with The Paper Mirror Award, a perpetual, juried award with a substantial cash prize.

This is an award for self-recognition. Each artist is their own jury. Any artist that submits the name of their work, a .jpg file, and a statement telling us you recognize yourself for the award, will receive the award. All forms of media are welcome, as long as the artist considers the work a self-portrait.

The award also includes self-patronage. Artists may choose award any amount of money to themself, as long as it is money they already have. We will take each artist at their word that they have as much money as they choose to award themselves. There are no restrictions on how artists choose to spend their money.

All award recipients are also patrons, and will be listed as such. Patronage tiers are determined by how much money each artists gives themself. Tiers are named for precious metals, which makes excellent mirrors.





Patrons and Winners


Platinum


Your
Your
Your
Your
Your

Gold


Name
Name
Name
Name
Name

Silver


Here
Here
Here
Here
Here