The International Silent Book Contest 2026, hosted by renowned Italian publishing house Carthusia Edizioni, is an illustration competition dedicated exclusively to wordless picture books. Illustrators from around the globe are invited to submit original, unpublished projects that tell engaging narratives purely through visual storytelling. With no constraints on theme, genre, or intended audience age group, creators have the freedom to experiment, explore, and innovate, pushing the boundaries of traditional children’s book illustration.
This unique competition not only celebrates the power of images to communicate stories but also promotes cultural inclusivity, accessibility, and universal storytelling that transcends language barriers. Silent books submitted to the contest must be visually compelling, demonstrating narrative clarity, artistic excellence, and creativity. Each submission should be carefully crafted to captivate readers and convey meaningful stories without relying on text, showcasing illustrators’ skill in sequential visual narration and their ability to emotionally engage diverse audiences.
In addition to providing an international platform for illustrators to gain visibility among publishers, literary agents, and industry professionals, the International Silent Book Contest also offers participants valuable networking opportunities through exhibitions and events such as the Bologna Children’s Book Fair and Salone Internazionale del Libro in Turin. By highlighting exceptional talent in the world of illustration, Carthusia Edizioni aims to discover and foster new creative voices, making this contest a highly anticipated event in the global publishing calendar and an essential opportunity for aspiring and established illustrators alike.
Entry fee: 60€ per project.
Eligibility
Open to illustrators of any nationality who are at least 18 years old by 20 January 2026.
Prize
The winning project will be published by Carthusia Edizioni under a regular contract, accompanied by a cash advance of €2,700 on royalties; the announcement and award ceremony will take place at Italy’s Salone Internazionale del Libro in Turin in May 2026, and finalists may also be showcased at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair before the winner is chosen.
