The William H. Johnson Prize is awarded annually to an early career African American artist.
For our purposes, "early career" is a flexible term that should be interpreted liberally to include
artists who have finished their academic work and who have produced mature work for less
than ten years. Age is not determinative, and artists may already have been included in gallery
or museum exhibitions.

Sanford Biggers
recipient of the 2009 William H. Johnson Prize (details).

Karyn Olivier was honored as a finalist.

Jennie C. Jones
recipient of the 2008 William H. Johnson Prize (details).

Kalup Linzy was honored as a finalist.

Rodney McMillian
recipient of the 2007 William H. Johnson Prize (details).

Jennie C. Jones and Michael Queenland were honored as finalists.

Edgar Arceneaux
recipient of the 2006 William H. Johnson Prize (details).

Kira Lynn Harris and Tavares Strachan were honored as finalists .

Dave McKenzie
recipient of the 2005 William H. Johnson Prize (details).

Rodney McMillian was honored as a finalist.

Kori Newkirk
recipient of the 2004 William H. Johnson Prize (details).

Edgar Arceneaux and Mark Bradford were honored as finalists.

Nadine Robinson
recipient of the 2003 William H. Johnson Prize (details).

Tana Hargest was honored as a finalist.

Laylah Ali
recipient of the 2002 William H. Johnson Prize (details).

Laurie Jackson and Kori Newkirk were honored as finalists.