Esse arts + opinions holds an annual writing competition for young critics registered in a bachelor’s or master’s program at a Canadian university. The competition aims to promote the work of emerging art critics by providing them with editorial support and a first publishing experience in Esse magazine.

Terms of the Competition

Your submission can take the form of an essay or a review (exhibition, event, performance, theatre, dance, music, visual art, or site-specific intervention), corresponding to the magazine’s editorial policy. Articles should be between 750 and 1,250 words in length (notes included).

The winner’s essay will be published in the fall issue of Esse. The author will receive a publishing fee, support from the editorial board for the final edit, and a two-year subscription to the magazine. If applicable, one or two finalists’ essays will be published online.

The next submission deadline is May 10, 2024. To submit an essay (.doc or .docx format) or for more information, contact us at: redaction@esse.ca. Please write “Young Critics Competition” in the subject line and provide a short 30-word bio mentioning your current studies.