COPIC AWARD 2026 — international illustration competition with prizes up to $1,500 and a finalist exhibition
Not all competitions require complex applications, portfolios or lengthy descriptions. Sometimes a single work and a clear format, where the image itself is evaluated, are enough.
The COPIC AWARD is an international illustration competition open to participants of any age, nationality or skill level. The main requirement is that the work must be created using Copic markers. This creates a level playing field for all participants without restricting them in terms of style, concept, or artistic approach.
The competition brings together artists from all over the world and is built around the idea of a global creative dialogue. Participants go through several stages of selection, and finalists receive not only prizes but also international exposure.
What’s in it for participants
Finalists and winners receive cash prizes of up to $1,500, professional marker sets, publications, and participation in the final selection stage.
Separate awards are presented for various categories, including the jury’s choice, regional prizes, and special partner awards.
The competition may also open opportunities for further collaboration: winners may be invited to create work for the brand’s official materials. This is not a mandatory requirement, but a real step towards professional collaboration.
How to enter
The entry process begins with an online submission. You register, upload up to three images of one work (for example, an overall view and details), and add a description. At this stage, a digital version is sufficient – there is no need to send the original.
Once verified, your application is published on the platform and enters the first stage of selection. The jury assesses the images themselves, so it is important that they accurately represent the work.
If the work reaches the final stage, the organisers will request the original. This is required for the exhibition and final assessment. Postage is at the participant’s expense, after which the work is returned.
Requirements for the original entry
The work must be created using Copic markers and be entirely original.
Only one entry per participant will be accepted.
Both two-dimensional and three-dimensional works are accepted. It is important to consider the following restrictions: maximum dimensions – 420 × 297 × 300 mm (A3 format), weight – up to 5 kg.
Fragile materials, such as glass or ceramics, are not accepted. It is best to plan the format and materials in advance, considering the possible need to ship the original.
Who is it for
This competition is particularly well suited to illustrators, graphic artists and creators working with traditional media. It can also serve as a good starting point for those wishing to submit work to an international competition for the first time, without complex requirements or barriers.
Even without certainty about the outcome, participation can function as practice: you adapt your work to a specific context, learn how to present it, and enter an international field.
The deadline for applications is 30 June 2026.
Registration opens on 1 April, and submission of works begins on 1 May.
The results of the first stage are expected in mid-August, the final selection will take place in September, and the winners will be announced in early November.
