Launch of the Fondation CHU Teh-Chun Encouragement Prize: a new support scheme for emerging artists from HEAD – Geneva from June 2026

Fondation CHU Teh-Chun is strengthening its commitment to young contemporary creation with the launch, in June 2026, of the Fondation CHU Teh-Chun Encouragement Prize, in partnership with HEAD – Geneva University of Art and Design.

Aimed at graduates of the Master in Visual Arts, this prize, endowed with CHF 5,000, seeks to support emerging artists at the outset of their professional careers. It is designed to accompany the development of their practice upon completion of their studies, at a pivotal moment in their artistic journey.

A commitment to the next generation of artists

With this new initiative, the Foundation reaffirms its ambition to actively contribute to the flourishing and renewal of creative talent. The prize forms part of a broader continuity of action, notably its partnership with the International School of Geneva (Ecolint) since 2022, reflecting a sustained commitment to arts education and the support of young artists.

It is intended for students graduating in June 2026, offering concrete support to help them take their first steps into a professional artistic career.

An artistic legacy at the heart of the initiative

Driven by a profound “creative passion”, CHU Teh-Chun developed a dual mastery: that of Western painting and Chinese art. Throughout his career, he created a distinctive body of work that is both poetic and cosmic, emerging from a dialogue between these traditions.

His transnational journey between China and France, together with his free exploration of the relationships between nature, gesture and calligraphy, reflects a singular artistic approach rooted in a reflection on cultural heritage.

Today, this same rigour and passion continue to inspire the Foundation in its support of the next generation of artists.

A pioneering partnership

This prize marks the first collaboration between Fondation CHU Teh-Chun and HEAD – Geneva. It reflects a shared commitment to fostering the professional integration of young graduates and supporting an ever-evolving artistic scene.

Image : HEAD — Exhibition of Visual Arts Graduates’ Work © Grad Tour 2025, HEAD – Geneva, Sylvain Leurent