Organizer Information
The Global Comic Awards are hosted by CELSYS, Inc., the creator of Clip Studio Paint, in partnership with leading comic platforms such as Pixiv and other industry partners. CELSYS is a software and digital tools company dedicated to empowering comic and illustration creators worldwide through its flagship product, Clip Studio Paint, a leading drawing and comic creation suite used by professionals and hobbyists globally. The Global Comic Awards aim to provide a prestigious platform for
comic creators of all levels to present original work to a global audience and to connect with publishers and industry professionals.
Title & Description
Global Comic Awards 2026 – International Comic Contest (Open Call)
The Global Comic
Awards 2026 is an international open call for comic creators across the world to submit original comics in two main categories: the Open Category (any theme) and the Theme Category, with the 2026 theme
“Journey.” Submissions will be evaluated by a judging panel, and winners will receive cash prizes, long‑term Clip Studio Paint EX licenses, and exposure opportunities. Outstanding works may also attract attention from major comic publishers, potentially leading to publication or professional collaboration.
Categories
- Comic/Cartoon
- Visual Arts (comics as visual storytelling)
- Graphic (narrative art)
- Digital (digital comic creation)
Eligibility
- Open to comic creators worldwide, regardless of nationality or professional status.
- No age restrictions specified.
- Works must be original.
There are no restrictions on language or location of the artist — submissions may come from any country.
Program Benefits & Awards
Prizes for the 2026 edition include:
- Grand Prize (1 winner): $3,250 USD + three years of Clip Studio Paint EX for one device.
- Open Category & Theme Category Winners (1 each): $980 USD + three years of Clip Studio Paint EX.
- Excellence Awards (10 winners): $130 USD + one year of Clip Studio Paint EX.
- Outstanding entries may be contacted by publishers for potential professional opportunities or publication.
Prize amounts may vary slightly due to exchange rate differences.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
Submissions must adhere to the contest rules, generally including:
- Original comic works (Open or Theme category).
- Entries must be created by the submitting artist.
- Specific formatting rules (page count and layout) are provided in the clipstudio.net contest guidelines.
- Refer to the official rules for exact file formats and submission guidelines.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
- Entry Period: 14 January 2026 – 31 March 2026
Location
Tokyo, Japan
Additional Details
The Global Comic Awards are backed by industry partners and major comic publishers. Outstanding participants may be scouted by editors and gain opportunities for publication or professional advancement. The contest supports a broad range of comic styles and welcomes international participation.
