#Japan #Tokyo #Digital Hollywood #Prototype Me #U-18 Artist

Digital Hollywood University Initiates U-18 Artist Contest 2026

Digital Hollywood University (DHU), a university recognized by the Ministry of Education, is at the forefront of fostering digital creativity among young talents. Located in Ochanomizu, Tokyo, DHU has recently announced the commencement of the U-18 Artist Contest 2026, which aims to discover and showcase the talents of creators and artists aged 18 and under.

Since its inception in 2009, DHU has celebrated creative achievements from young innovators worldwide, allowing students, clubs, and individual creators to present their works annually. The 2026 contest theme is "Prototype Me", inviting young minds to move beyond traditional expectations and showcase their passion for creation. The guiding principle is to encourage participants to fill the world with their unique prototypes, emphasizing the importance of creative energy over perfection.

This year, the contest has diversified by introducing a new AI Works Category to its traditional sections: 3DCG, Illustration, and Video. In this era of rapidly advancing generative AI technology, participants are encouraged to merge their curiosity with their artistic expressions, submitting innovative video works that reflect their unique perspectives.

Judging and Prizes

The judging panel comprises esteemed faculty from DHU's 3DCG and AI departments, alongside professionals from the creative industry and accomplished DHU alumni. Awards will include the Grand Prize, alongside the best entries in each category, which will be honored with distinguished accolades, including:

• - Grand Prize Winner: iPad Air
• - Best Award in each category: Amazon gift card worth 30,000 yen
• - Excellence Award for several entries per category: Amazon gift card worth 10,000 yen

Furthermore, awardees will benefit from an exemption from the document review phase of DHU's entrance selection process, significantly lowering their tuition fees to achieve a substantial scholarship opportunity covering up to four years.

All participants, regardless of award status, will receive a Certificate of Participation, which can be utilized for extracurricular activities or research initiatives.

Eligibility and Submission

• - Eligibility: Participants must be individuals or groups aged 18 and under, regardless of nationality, and can only submit amateur works, including those created for school projects or original past works.
• - Submission Deadline: July 7, 2026
• - Results Announcement: Mid-August 2026 via email, with winning entries displayed at the Summer Open Campus on August 23.

Categories of Entry

• - 3DCG
• - Illustration
• - Video
• - AI Works (Exhibition only and not eligible for Grand Prize)

Entrants can apply through the dedicated contest website: U-18 Artist Contest 2026 Entry Form

About Digital Hollywood University

Founded in April 2005, DHU integrates cutting-edge digital content education with a unique focus on practical and theoretical knowledge. The university aims to equip students with skills necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving digital future. DHU emphasizes global learning, offering diverse opportunities for students from 46 countries to welcome creativity and innovation within its academically enriching environment.

This year, the introduction of the AI Works category highlights DHU's commitment to evolve with technology and nurture the next generation of creative leaders. We eagerly await submissions that will not only showcase talent but inspire the future of technological artistry.