Emerging American artists and craftspeople are recognized every two years by a series of monetary grants. The awards go to the artists whose work shows promise, but who have not yet received widespread critical or commercial recognition. Award winners are selected from nominees proposed by the Foundation's trustees, previous recipients, artists, critics, and museum professionals throughout the United States. The nominees submit various materials which are reviewed by a jury consisting of a committee of Foundation trustees, as well as a changing roster of artists, critics, and museum professionals. Winners are selected for their talent, promise, and individual artistic strength. The 1999 Louis Comfort Tiffany Foundation Biennial Competition Awards have been administered by the American Federation of Arts.