The Jakopič Award (Slovenian: Jakopičeva nagrada) is the highest national recognition in Slovenia for achievements in the field of visual arts. Established in 1969, the award is presented annually to Slovenian artists for their lifetime achievements or for outstanding creative accomplishments realized over the preceding two years.
The award is named in honor of Rihard Jakopič (1869–1943), a central figure in Slovenian Impressionism and a key promoter of organized artistic life in Slovenia during the early 20th century. The prize was founded to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Jakopič's birth.
The selection process and presentation of the award are managed by a consortium of institutions, typically including the Slovenian Association of Fine Arts Societies (ZDSLU), the Academy of Fine Arts and Design of the University of Ljubljana, and the Museum of Modern Art (Moderna galerija). A professional jury composed of representatives from these institutions evaluates the nominees, who are usually established painters, sculptors, or practitioners in other visual art media.
The Jakopič Award is traditionally presented on April 12th, the anniversary of Rihard Jakopič's birth. Recipients are honored for their contribution to the development and excellence of the Slovenian cultural landscape. In addition to the main award, the committee occasionally grants Jakopič Recognitions to younger artists or for specific thematic contributions.