Since 1987, the Prix Ars Electronica has provided an interdisciplinary platform for all those who use the computer as a universal design medium in their creative work at the interface of art, technology and society.
The Prix Ars Electronica, the Ars Electronica Festival, the Ars Electronica Center – Museum of the Future, and the Ars Electronica Futurelab represent the four pillars of Ars Electronica Linz GmbH, a unique platform for digital art and media culture on account of its specific orientation and long-standing continuity.
The competition is organized by Ars Electronica Linz GmbH and ORF’s Upper Austrian regional studio in collaboration with the OK Center for Contemporary Art and the Brucknerhaus Linz. The Golden Nicas are presented during the Ars Electronica Festival each year. The Prix Ars Electronica is one of the most prestigious awards for creativity and pioneering spirit in the field of digital media.
Featuring seven categories, including a youth competition, and with internationally renowned artists from over 70 countries taking part, it serves as a barometer for trends in contemporary media art.
With 42,245 entries since 1987 and annual prize money totaling 117,500 euros it is the largest cash award worldwide for cyber art. In all, 6 Golden Nicas, 12 Awards of Distinction and some 70 Honorary Mentions as well as [the next idea] voestalpine Art and Technology Grant are presented to the winners.