The Golden Turtle 2026 Creative Competitions form part of the internationally recognised Golden Turtle Festival, a long-standing eco-educational and creative platform dedicated to wildlife, nature conservation, and environmental storytelling. The competition invites creatives from around the world to submit original works that explore the beauty, fragility, and complexity of the natural world. Through photography, visual art, and ecological poster design, the project aims to raise awareness of biodiversity, sustainability, and humanity’s relationship with nature, positioning itself as one of the most prominent international wildlife and nature-focused creative competitions.

As a global creative competition, The Golden Turtle 2026 places strong emphasis on artistic quality, authenticity, and environmental relevance. Submissions are reviewed by an international jury of experts from the fields of photography, art, environmental science, and conservation. Selected works are showcased as part of the Golden Turtle Festival programme, which includes high-profile exhibitions, public events, and educational initiatives. Winning and shortlisted entries often tour internationally through curated exhibitions, allowing artists and photographers to gain significant global exposure within the wildlife and environmental art community.

Beyond competition, The Golden Turtle functions as a cultural and educational movement that connects artists, photographers, conservationists, and audiences through shared environmental values. By combining creative excellence with ecological messaging, the 2026 edition continues the Festival’s mission to inspire environmental responsibility and protect wildlife through visual storytelling. The competition is widely regarded as a prestigious opportunity for emerging and established creatives seeking international recognition, meaningful impact, and participation in a globally respected nature and wildlife art platform.

There is no entry fee.

Eligibility

Open to anyone worldwide.

Prize

First-place winners in each nomination receive a cash prize of approximately 75,000 Russian rubles, with a special “Photographer of the Year” prize of around 150,000 rubles and several additional special prizes awarded, while second and third place laureates get valuable prizes and gifts from sponsors and partners of the Festival.