About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
Applications are now open for the 2026 edition of the Art on Climate International Illustration Competition, a global creative initiative inviting artists, illustrators, and video creators to use visual storytelling to inspire action on climate change.
Organized by Fingertips Company Limited and sponsored by Allianz Global Investors (AllianzGI), the competition provides an international platform for emerging and professional creatives to showcase innovative ideas around sustainability, biodiversity, climate resilience, and environmental justice.
The competition has grown into a major international movement since its launch in Spain in 2019. In 2025 alone, the initiative received more than 3,500 submissions from over 2,600 illustrators across 100 locations worldwide. The 2026 edition continues this momentum by encouraging participants to create impactful artworks that reflect urgent environmental realities and sustainable solutions.
Competition Theme: Climate Change
This year’s theme focuses on “Accelerating the Transition through Purposeful Innovation.” Participants are encouraged to submit original artworks inspired by one or more of the following topics:
Driving the climate transition for resilient communities
Protecting biodiversity and respecting planetary boundaries
Fostering inclusive capitalism for a just transition
Financing innovation and technology for real-world climate impact
Promoting collective action for a sustainable future
The competition aims to transform complex sustainability concepts into engaging visual narratives capable of inspiring meaningful climate action globally.
Who Can Apply?
The competition is open to anyone aged 18 years or older as of 17 May 2026, regardless of nationality or location. Both emerging and professional creatives are encouraged to participate.
Categories
Participants may enter works under the following categories:
Illustration Category
Illustrations may be created using painting, digital art, or mixed media techniques. However, AI-generated artworks, photographs, and clip art are not allowed.
Requirements include:
A3 size (297mm × 420mm)
JPG format
Minimum resolution of 300 dpi
Maximum file size of 10MB
Horizontal or vertical orientation
Animated Video Category
Animated videos should creatively communicate climate-related themes in short-form visual storytelling.
Requirements include:
Duration between 10 and 15 seconds
MP4 or MOV format
Aspect ratio of either 9:16 or 1:1
Maximum file size of 30MB
Voiceovers are not allowed
Any on-screen text must be in English
Participants may submit up to three illustrations and three animated videos.
Awards and Prizes
The competition offers significant recognition and financial rewards for winning entries.
Illustration Category Awards
Champion: €2,000
First Runner-up: €1,500
Second Runner-up: €1,000
20 Merit Awards: €150 each
Animated Video Category Awards
Champion: €2,000
First Runner-up: €1,500
Second Runner-up: €1,000
All winners will receive electronic certificates, and selected works will be featured in a virtual international exhibition.
Important Dates
Applications Open: 18 May 2026
Submission Deadline: 31 July 2026
Results Announcement: By 30 September 2026
Why This Competition Matters
The Art on Climate competition reflects the growing role of art and creativity in addressing global environmental challenges. By encouraging creators to visualize solutions to climate change, biodiversity loss, and social inequality, the initiative highlights how storytelling and design can influence public awareness and inspire collective responsibility.
AllianzGI, a global leader in sustainable investing, continues to support the competition as part of its commitment to financing climate solutions and promoting real-world environmental impact. The initiative aligns with broader global conversations around sustainable development, ESG investing, and climate resilience.
For artists, designers, and animators passionate about environmental advocacy, the competition presents an opportunity to gain international exposure while contributing to conversations shaping the future of the planet.
Application Process
Interested participants must upload their artwork or animated videos through the competition platform during the application period. Each submission must include a short description of between 30 and 100 words explaining the concept and inspiration behind the work.
Applicants are encouraged to carefully review all competition guidelines and technical requirements before submission.
Final Thoughts
As climate change continues to reshape communities and ecosystems around the world, creative industries are playing an increasingly important role in promoting awareness and action. The Art on Climate International Illustration Competition 2026 offers a meaningful platform for artists and storytellers to contribute to global climate conversations through powerful visual expression.
Creatives from around the world are encouraged to participate, share innovative ideas, and help build a more sustainable and resilient future through art.
How to apply