Organizer Information:

Too Marker Products Inc. The COPIC AWARD is a competition that connects Copic fans from around the world to inspire each other, share diverse artworks, and enjoy a collective creative experience.

Title & Description:

Applications are open for the COPIC AWARD 2026.

This competition provides an opportunity to share diverse artworks created using Copic products. The competition accepts both two-dimensional and three-dimensional works. There is no specific theme, so applicants are encouraged to create without limitations.

Category:

Visual Arts & Illustration (Works must be created using Copic products).

Eligibility:

  • Who: Open to anyone globally, regardless of age, nationality, gender, or experience.
  • Individual Only: Applications are limited to individuals only. Group/collective applications will NOT be accepted.
  • Originality & AI Ban: Works must be 100% original and created by the applicant. Artworks created using generative AI (artificial intelligence) are strictly prohibited, regardless of the extent of their use.
  • Material Constraints: Fragile base materials such as ceramic and glass are strictly prohibited.
  • Size & Weight Limits: The actual physical work must be within 420mm x 297mm x 300mm (17 x 12 x 12 inches) and weigh 5kg (11 lbs) or less.
  • Prior Publication: Entries cannot have been previously made public through other competitions or exhibitions (sharing on personal social media or own exhibitions is allowed).

Program Benefits & Awards:

  • Grand Prize (1 Winner): $1,500 USD, a complete 358-color Copic Sketch set in an acrylic case, an exclusive interview, a trophy, an art book, and a guaranteed paid commission.
  • Second Prize (2 Winners): $1,000 USD, a complete 358-color Copic Sketch set, an interview, a trophy, and an art book.
  • Future Generation Art Prize (Youth 18 or under): Grand Prize (1) receives a 358-color set, trophy, and book. Additional 100 winners receive a special edition set.
  • Judges' Awards (5 Winners): Special Edition Copic Set with a judge's autograph and a trophy.
  • Finalists (50 Entries): Special edition COPIC AWARD 2026 set and a commemorative art book.

Application Fee & Program Costs:

  • Application Fee: Free to apply.
  • Finalist Shipping Costs: If an artwork is selected for final judging, the applicant MUST physically send the original drawing to the organizer. The applicant is fully responsible for all shipping costs, packing costs, and transportation insurance to Japan. (Note: The organizer will pay for the return shipping).

Application Requirements:

  • Email Warning: The organizers strongly request that applicants do NOT use free webmail addresses (e.g., Yahoo, Hotmail, Gmail) to register, as these often block the required confirmation emails via spam filters.
  • Image Specifications: Upload a maximum of 3 images of the same work (e.g., overview, close-up, alternate angle) in .jpg format. Max 5MB per image (15MB total).

How to Apply?

Register your applicant information and upload your artwork via the official COPIC AWARD website.

Key Dates:

  • Applicant Registration Opens: April 1, 2026.
  • Artwork Entry Opens: May 1, 2026 (12:00 PM Japan Time).
  • Application Deadline: June 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM (Japan Time).
  • First Round Judging: July 2026.
  • Announcement of First-Round Results: Mid-August 2026.
  • Final Judging: Mid-September 2026.
  • Announcement of Final Results: Early November 2026.

Location:

Global / Online (Finalist physical works to be shipped to Japan).

Contact Information:

Inquiries Email: contact@copicaward.com