Art Comp 2026 - a finalist's perspective
- janabeancreations
- Jun 6
- 3 min read
This year, I decided to submit one of my favorite pieces True Love to one of the largest art competitions in the world. It was my first time entering as I felt that my work was not good enough to enter previously. I still had enormous doubt but I submitted it anyway. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. It was one of the last things I did before going back home to Trinidad as part of my 50th anniversary celebrations. And wouldn't you know it? True Love was selected as one of the 100 pieces. I was elated! For a self-taught artist, to be chosen was a way of validating that I am truly an artist. Especially in an art competition at this level.
About Art Comp 2026
Art Comp 2026 is an annual art competition designed to showcase innovative talent from artists around the globe. This event aims to celebrate creativity across various mediums and styles, providing a platform for both emerging and established artists.
Key Features
Categories: Artists can submit works in multiple categories, including painting, sculpture, digital art, and photography.
Judging Panel: A diverse panel of esteemed judges from the art industry will evaluate submissions based on creativity, technique, and originality.
Exhibition: Selected works are displayed at 100 Kellogg's, London ON from May 29th until September 7th 2026, allowing artists to gain visibility and connect with art enthusiasts.
Awards: A total of $200,000 CAD in prizes will be awarded, including:
Panel’s Choice Award – $100,000 CAD, selected by a panel of judges.
People’s Choice Awards – Determined on public votes:
1st Place: $50,000 CAD
2nd Place: $30,000 CAD
3rd Place: $20,000 CAD.
Participation Guidelines
Eligibility: Open to artists of all ages and backgrounds.
Submission Process: Artists submitted their works through the official Art Comp 2026 website, along with a brief artist statement.
Deadline: All submissions were received by February 1 2026. The 100 finalists (chosen out of 1200 submissions worldwide) were unveiled at 100 Kellogg's on May 29 2026. To see the full list , check the Art Comp 2026 website
One of the best things about this competition is that the general public can vote for their favorite piece as well. To vote, just click this link. Each person must first register to vote, then choose their favorite piece. To vote for True Love, just search for "Janadi" after registration
Opening night
The official launch of Art Comp took place at 100 Kellogg's on May 29th 2026. The finalists who attended mingled with each other, sponsors and other specially invited guests. We were then treated to the music of Vinterra quartet who turned songs from Abba, Queen and Taylor Swift among others into classical numbers worthy of a Bridgerton set. The highlight of the night was Rob Surette who did a live painting show where he painted large portraits of Gandhi, Dr. Martin Luther King and Jane Goodall with an amazing accompanying video presentation (see video below). These paintings with a few others were then auctioned at the end of the show.
Conclusion
Art Comp 2026 promises to be an exciting event that fosters artistic expression and community engagement. It provides a unique opportunity for artists like myself to showcase their work and gain recognition in the competitive art world. I am on the journey of a lifetime. I invite you along for the ride.
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