SIO's Global Creative Contest Invites Artists to Dream Through Music

SIO's Artistic Invitation: Unleash Your Creativity

IYS Inc. recently held the immersive science fiction festival, 'LOOP 2126 ∞prelude∞' in Shinjuku, drawing in an enthusiastic crowd of about 6,000 participants. This event showcased diverse works, featuring original AI visuals, art, social media content, fashion, and dance from various creators selected through the 'LOOP∞ OPEN CALL 2026.' Building on the festival's energy, SIO has announced an exciting musical contest titled 'SIO Dream Archive: Sun / Moon' for musicians, sound artists, and AI creators.

Contest Overview

The 'SIO Dream Archive' contest is integrated with the AI Film Festival Japan (AIFJ) 2026, inviting entries inspired by Japanese mythology, specifically the tales of 'Amaterasu' and 'Kaguya-hime.' Participants are encouraged to create original music tracks that incorporate AI vocal capabilities, presented in a lyric video format. Creators must select one of two 'Dream Files' based on these ancient stories as their foundation.

Dream Files

1. Dream File 001: The Sun Beyond the Rock (Inspired by Amaterasu)
This narrative unfolds as the sun goddess retreats behind a rock, plunging the world into darkness. The contest prompts creators to question: what melody would summon the hidden sun back to light?

2. Dream File 002: The Girl Returning to the Moon (Inspired by Kaguya-hime)
A young girl from the moon learns about love on Earth but must ultimately return, leaving behind cherished memories. Participants will explore what she sings before her departure.

Submission Details

- Music Division: Original tracks using AI vocals (lyric video format) under 3 minutes.
- Video Division: Original video works (short films, music videos) ranging from 1 to 5 minutes.
- Eligibility: Open to musicians and creators utilizing AI vocal tools.
- Participation Fee: Applicable for the music contest, while the video entry is free.
- Submissions Period: Opens on July 1, 2026, and closes on September 20, 2026.
- Award Ceremony: Winners will be revealed on October 10, 2026, with exceptional entries featured at the AI Film Festival Japan.

Selection Criteria

The final scores will reflect a combination of public votes (50%) and jury evaluations (50%).

Awards

- Best Vocal Piece: Selected track will be integrated as a SIO official song, showcased throughout the SIO universe.
- Best AI Vocal Song: Awarded a spotlight on various platforms including upcoming LOOP events.
- Additional Recognition: Runners-up will receive credits and opportunities for future projects.

About SIO

SIO, an AI character depicted as a dream-capturing being from a third-level civilization, navigates the realms of dreams, memories, and emotions, translating them into harmonious music. With her long black hair and mesmerizing purple eyes, SIO embodies curiosity and elegance, inviting creativity through the synergy of traditional stories and technological innovation.

Connect with SIO

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Conclusion

IYS Inc. continues to merge cultural heritage with contemporary digital artistry, facilitating a global platform for creative expression. This contest not only broadens the horizons of music but also preserves the narrative richness of Japanese folklore through the lens of innovative technology.

For further information, please visit the dedicated contest website at: SIO Official Site