The Sidney Prize

Prize awarded to writers who have produced pieces that have had an outstanding effect on society. The winner receives both a cash award and spends one day working in a newsroom; two runners-up also receive digital subscriptions. Philip Sidney Ardern was an associate professor and lecturer of English at Auckland University College from 1912-1947, teaching both Old and Middle English subjects. This prize competition began in 1967 in his honor and sought to encourage further study of Old and Middle English. Since its creation, the prize has seen considerable expansion. It has been given to journalists, politicians, religious leaders, authors, social reformers, businessmen, film directors, composers and sports figures–even winning journalists have received this honor; as has a football club chairman who won it with Sherlock Holmes himself!

The Sydney Prize honors work that serves a clear social or moral purpose, with judges looking for pieces that demonstrate high levels of research, are well argued, and make people question how we live our lives, or inspire action towards improving its condition. As an opportunity for writers hoping to get their works published, The Sydney Prize provides an excellent platform.

Sidney prizes serve as a reminder of their value during an age when magazines seem to be disappearing, with winners chosen by an esteemed panel of writers from around the country – this year including Hilton Als, Ed Yong and David Brooks from The New Yorker; Atlantic; and Times respectively. Essays chosen had narrative drive while making readers more informed.

This award, named for Sidney Perkowitz’s work as an art and literature critic who bridged art, literature, culture, and history, will be given at AIP’s 2023 Triennial Council Meeting in San Diego. Perkowitz will also receive the prize!