Organizer Information
The Projection Mapping Association of Japan (PMAJ) is a globally recognized non-profit organization established in 2012. It serves as a pioneering force in the field of spatial digital art, dedicated to the growth and refinement of projection mapping as a sophisticated medium of artistic expression. PMAJ operates at the intersection of technology and creativity, acting as a professional network that connects digital artists, technical engineers, and municipal stakeholders. Beyond organizing world-class competitions, the association conducts extensive research and development, hosts educational workshops, and provides technical consultancy for large-scale public art installations. Their mission is to transform urban landscapes into immersive galleries, fostering a global community where creators can push the boundaries of visual storytelling. By consistently securing high-profile architectural landmarks for their events, PMAJ has cemented its reputation as a premier platform for digital innovation in the 21st century.
Title & Description
13th 1minute Projection Mapping Competition
The 2026 edition of this prestigious contest centers on the evocative theme "Dialogue." In an era defined by rapid technological shifts and changing social dynamics, this theme invites artists to explore the various forms of communication that bridge gaps between cultures, generations, and ideologies. The competition challenges participants to condense a powerful narrative into a high-intensity video work lasting approximately one minute.
What makes this opportunity unique is its monumental canvas: the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building No. 1. As the holder of the Guinness World Record for the largest permanent architectural projection mapping exhibition, this building offers an unparalleled surface for artists to display their work. The competition is not merely a technical exercise but an experiential journey, where digital art interacts with one of the most iconic pieces of architecture in Tokyo. Selected finalists will have their work screened during the "TOKYO LIGHTS" festival, a massive public event that attracts thousands of spectators and high-level industry attention, providing a global stage for the next generation of visual creators.
Categories
The competition is specifically designed for specialists in digital and time-based media, including:
- 3D Projection Mapping: Works specifically designed to interact with architectural geometry.
- Video Art & Motion Graphics: Narrative or abstract visual storytelling through motion.
- CGI & Digital Animation: High-fidelity computer-generated imagery.
- Interdisciplinary Media: Works that blend sound design, visual effects, and architectural theory.
Eligibility
This is a truly International open call with no geographic barriers. The organizers encourage a diverse range of applicants:
- Global Participation: Open to artists, designers, and creative studios from any country.
- Career Stage: Welcoming to seasoned professionals, emerging artists, and university students alike.
- Collaborative Teams: Applications are accepted from solo creators or collective groups and production companies.
- Originality: The work must be a new creation that has not won prizes in other international competitions.
Program Benefits & Awards
Selected participants and winners receive substantial financial rewards and professional exposure. The total prize pool is JPY 2,900,000, distributed as follows:
- Grand Prize: JPY 2,000,000, a commemorative trophy, and a prestigious invitation to return as a "Guest Creator" for the following year’s festival.
- Second Prize: JPY 500,000 and a trophy.
- Jury Prize: JPY 200,000 and a trophy.
- Organizer & Audience Awards: JPY 100,000 each.
- Exhibition Opportunity: Finalists receive a high-definition screening of their work on the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building during the TOKYO LIGHTS 2026 festival, ensuring massive public and media visibility.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
The submission process is rigorous and requires high technical compliance:
- Preliminary Registration: Completion of an online entry form to receive the official production kit.
- Technical Template: Use of the mandatory Adobe After Effects templates provided by the organizer to match the building’s mapping coordinates.
- Video Format: A high-quality mp4 file (H.264) with a resolution of 1080 × 1350 and a duration between 1:00 and 1:59 minutes.
- Creative Documentation: A concise concept description (approx. 100 words) and a creator profile.
- Audio: Embedded high-fidelity stereo audio that complements the visual narrative.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 1 March 2026
- Shortlist Notification: 8 April 2026
- Final High-Res Data Deadline: 9 May 2026
- Main Event & Screening: Late May 2026 (TOKYO LIGHTS 2026)
Location
Tokyo, Japan
Additional Details
The "Dialogue" theme is intended to be interpreted broadly, but artists should avoid content that is overly political, religious, or contains explicit violence, as the event is a family-friendly public installation. PMAJ provides a detailed "Production Guide" to assist those new to large-scale projection mapping, ensuring all participants can meet the high technical standards required for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building’s unique facade.