The sixth edition of the international illustration contest featuring Copic markers.
As the brand’s partner in Bulgaria, we at “Slanchogled” are keeping an eye on this opportunity for Bulgarian authors to showcase their work on the world stage.
Contest Schedule
The process is divided into two stages:
April 1, 2026: Registration opens for participants. The platform copicaward.com opens for users to create personal profiles.
May 1 – June 30, 2026: Period for uploading completed works to the official website.
Terms and Conditions
The contest is open to everyone—professionals and amateurs of all ages. The main requirement is that the artwork be drawn by hand using original Copic materials. Digital editing and corrections are not permitted.
A Look Back: Inspiration from 2025
To get a sense of the scope and variety of techniques, we can take a look at the archive of last year’s award-winning works. They show that the jury values individual style over run-of-the-mill clichés. The Winners for 2025
Practical Guidelines for Participation
Based on the criteria used by the international jury over the years, we have compiled several observations that may be helpful in preparing the work:
Nature of the medium: The contest values the way in which the marker’s specific qualities are utilized—its transparency, its ability to create subtle layering, and its graphic impact. Works that fully realize Copic’s potential tend to make a stronger impression.
Attention to detail: Technical precision and ink control are important elements that the jury monitors closely.
Image authenticity: Since the submission is digital, a good photograph taken in natural light or a high-quality scan is essential. This allows the jury to see the actual colors and nuances without them being altered by artificial lighting or digital filters.
Focus on the illustration: The composition is more effective when it is free of extraneous elements, such as added text or graphic symbols that are not part of the drawing itself.
Awards
Although the details for 2026 have yet to be announced, the scale of the event is significant. In previous editions, the grand prize included $3,000 and a complete collection of 358 Copic Sketch colors.
The winning artists will have the opportunity to participate in exhibitions in Tokyo and be featured in the competition’s official catalog.
At our stores in Sofia and Varna, you can find all the supplies you need for your projects—from individual alcohol markers and inks to specialized illustration papers.
We look forward to the Bulgarian performances with interest.
Registration and complete rules: copicaward.com
