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SHIBUYA AWARDS 2026-27: An Invitation to Artists

The SHIBUYA AWARDS, a prestigious art competition, officially opened its call for submissions for the 2026-27 cycle on June 8, 2026. After the success of the previous event, which saw nearly 30,000 visitors, this year aims to engage a diverse range of creative talents. The theme for this cycle is "CROSSING," highlighting the intersection of people, culture, commerce, and technology found within the vibrant urban landscape of Shibuya.

About the SHIBUYA AWARDS

Launched in 2014, the SHIBUYA AWARDS is designed to foster artistic expression and interaction within the community by providing artists with opportunities to showcase their work. Not only is there a focus on the selection and exhibition of submitted art, but there is also a commitment to supporting artists through various initiatives that connect them with the community, businesses, and public spaces in Shibuya. By creating a platform where different expressions can meet, participants can foster collaboration and cultural value.

This year, artists can submit original works across various formats, including drawings, sculptures, photography, video, digital art, and installations. The open call does not restrict any particular year of creation, method, or genre, encouraging a wide range of artistic expressions.

The Role of Businesses and Communities

The SHIBUYA AWARDS aims to extend beyond traditional art sponsorship and exhibition. Companies and local stakeholders are encouraged to engage with artists to cultivate new cultural values grounded in their unique histories, technologies, and community dynamics. The support of businesses is not only about having their logos present; it involves creating connections that allow for the intersection of the art world and everyday experiences.

By collaborating with local artists, companies can utilize their environments and resources to provide meaningful platforms for expression, whether through funding, materials, or collaborative projects, thereby enriching the cultural fabric of Shibuya.

Engaging with Communities

In an era marked by urban challenges such as population decline and cultural retention, initiatives like artist residencies are crucial. They allow artists to immerse themselves within communities, interact with locals, and create works that reflect their experiences. By participating in the SHIBUYA AWARDS, local communities can discover new aspects of their identity while promoting cultural richness through art, events, and online exhibitions.

Success Stories and Future Directions

Last year saw the successful launch of the ABIKO A-LIFE prize, which highlighted regional culture through a special integration with the SHIBUYA AWARDS. Live art projects brought artists from the SHIBUYA AWARDS to local settings, showcasing their works within the context of the community's unique attributes.

This year, the initiative aims to expand even further by presenting awards that encourage collaborations that span a variety of disciplines, including special prizes and AIR programs that provide artists with opportunities for residency-based creation, research, and community engagement throughout their journey.

How to Participate

Interested artists can submit their works on the official submission page here. The application period extends from June 8, 2026, to July 31, 2026, allowing ample time to prepare and submit original pieces.

The awards not only aim to commend artistic excellence but also aspire to connect artists with broader opportunities for community interaction and social engagement. The selected artists will not only have their work seen by the public but will also have chances for recognition through prizes, including the Grand Prize of 300,000 yen, alongside various special awards.

Closing Thoughts

As stated by the governing body’s representative, Kenshi Yoneda, the SHIBUYA AWARDS seeks to be a gateway for artists, inviting them to find their place within the dynamic fabric of urban society. It is not merely about art; it is about fostering connections between creativity, business, culture, and community.

As Shibuya continues to be a melting pot of diversity, this year’s theme encourages artistic expressions to flourish and forge new relationships among artists, audiences, and stakeholders in the creative ecosystem of Shibuya.