The JIA Future Artists Award, organized annually by the Japan Illustrators’ Association (JIA), is an international illustration competition dedicated to discovering and nurturing emerging artistic talents aged 6 to 22 from around the globe. Established with a vision to celebrate young creativity, the award provides aspiring illustrators with a prestigious platform to showcase their artwork on an international stage. Each year, thousands of submissions from diverse cultural backgrounds are received, reflecting the vibrancy, imagination, and innovative potential of the next generation of artists.
Through this award, JIA actively supports global cultural exchange, enabling young illustrators to connect, inspire, and learn from each other’s perspectives and artistic styles. Participants benefit not only from recognition but also from exposure to professional art communities and influential industry figures. Winning artworks are prominently featured in various international illustration exhibitions, including touring showcases in major cultural hubs such as Beijing and Shanghai, thereby significantly expanding the visibility and impact of the artists’ works.
The competition spans multiple age categories, carefully designed to ensure fairness and encourage creative expression appropriate to each developmental stage. By fostering artistic talent early and providing meaningful incentives such as certificates, monetary prizes, and international exhibition opportunities, the JIA Future Artists Award motivates young illustrators to pursue artistic excellence and professional growth. Ultimately, the award aims to empower young artists, enrich global cultural dialogue, and cultivate the future leaders of the illustration community.
Entry fee: 30 USD per artwork.
Eligibility
Open to children and youth aged 6-22 (born between March 1, 2002, and May 31, 2018) from all nationalities.
Prize
The award is divided into four age categories: 6-8 years, 9-12 years, 13-18 years, and 19-22 years. In each category, one Gold Award winner receives a prize of 120 USD and a digital certificate; three Silver Award winners receive digital certificates; eight Bronze Award winners receive digital certificates; and finalists receive digital certificates. Additionally, winning works will be exhibited free of charge in large-scale illustration exhibitions, with touring exhibitions planned in cities such as Beijing and Shanghai.
