Organizer Information
The Islamic Arts Society (IAS) is an independent organization dedicated to celebrating Islamic art through high-profile festivals and competitions. Since 2020, this specific competition has welcomed over 500 artists from 32 countries to honor the Prophet’s life and character through creative expression.
Title & Description
Art for the Love of Muhammad (PBUH): International Open Call – 2026 Edition.
Reimagined and refined, this year’s competition commemorates the 1501st birth year of the Prophet (PBUH) in the Hijri calendar. Artists are invited to create works expressing spiritual connection and reverence through non-figurative visual languages. The competition serves as a powerful medium to explore the Prophet's universal message, character, and teachings.
Thematic Guidelines:
Submissions must be non-figurative. Themes include:
- Names and honorifics of the Prophet (PBUH).
- Key life events expressed through abstract or symbolic forms.
- Virtues, character, Hadith, and the Sunnah.
- Spiritually significant locations related to his life.
Categories
- Traditional Islamic Art: Calligraphy, geometry, illumination, arabesque, textiles, and ceramics.
- Contemporary Islamic Art: Abstract, conceptual, digital, mixed media, photography, and installation.
Eligibility
- Global Scope: Open to artists of all backgrounds worldwide.
- Quantity: Up to two original artworks per artist.
- Age: Open to all ages; artists under 18 compete in a Junior Category (non-cash recognition).
- Restriction: Figurative depictions of the Prophet (PBUH) or other revered figures are strictly prohibited.
Program Benefits and Awards
Supported by the Aslam Saleemi Family, this is one of the highest-awarded competitions of its kind globally:
- First Prize (Per Category): $11,000.
- Second Prize (Per Category): $5,000.
- Third Prize (Per Category): $2,000.
- Special Incentive: First Prize winners receive an invitation to the Islamic Arts Festival in the USA, with expenses covered up to $5,000.
- Exposure: Winners are featured on the IAS website/social media and showcased at the Annual Art Festival for curators and collectors.
Fees
- Application Fee: None specified.
Application Requirements
Artists must submit their work via the official online form. Selection is based on concept interpretation, artistic quality, originality, and adherence to non-figurative guidelines.
How to Apply?
Submit your work through the official Google Form application link. Apply to Art for the Love of Muhammad 2026.
Key Dates
- Submissions Open: May 4, 2026.
- Submissions Deadline: July 31, 2026.
- Grand Winner Announcement: August 26, 2026 (Eid-Milad-un-Nabi).
Location
Global / Online (Showcase in the USA for winners).
Additional Details
This cycle marks a meaningful transformation as the competition is now officially aligned with the 1501st birth anniversary of the Holy Prophet. Winning artists will have their work showcased at the Annual Art Festival, providing exposure to a global network of collectors and art professionals. Furthermore, top artists may be considered for gallery representation and sales opportunities following the exhibition.