Submissions have opened for the seventh edition of the BIC flagship Art Master Africa competition, which offers artists across Africa a platform to turn creativity into opportunity. At a time when Africa’s creative economy is emerging as a critical pathway for youth employment and global influence, BIC, a world leader in stationery, lighters, and shavers, is offering a $2,000 grand prize in the competition. Submissions opened on April 21 and will close on July 20, 2026. Alongside the cash prize, winners will receive mentorship and international exposure.
Theme and Tools
This year’s competition challenges creatives to interpret the theme “Tomorrow in Your Hands,” using only the iconic BIC Cristal ballpoint pen. In addition to cash prizes, selected artists will gain access to global visibility platforms, including the Art Master Africa Metaverse Gallery, positioning their work before international audiences and collectors. The first-place winner’s piece will also be acquired by the BIC Art Collection.
Statements from BIC Leadership
The Marketing Director for the Middle East and Africa at BIC and Art Master Africa custodian, Gregory Alibaux, who spoke at the launch of this year’s edition, said: “In its seventh edition, Art Master Africa continues to empower young artists and encourage them to express themselves through creativity. There is magic in using a simple everyday tool to create a beautiful work of art. We are committed to providing this platform for youth in the region and nurturing talent. From using a simple pen to create beauty, creatives can receive global visibility for their art, crossing borders and showing the power of self-expression, using just a simple tool.”
Growth and Impact
Since it debuted in 2017, the bi-annual competition has blossomed into one of the most recognised creative platforms on the continent. A crowd puller, its most recent edition, which held in 2024, attracted over 6,000 submissions from 2,500 artists across 52 countries, underscoring the rising global appetite for African artistic talent. This momentum is reflected in the journeys of artists who have emerged through the platform. Nigerian artist Oscar Ukonu, a past participant, has since built a distinguished career as a hyperrealism pencil artist, gaining recognition for his highly detailed portrait work and securing opportunities that have expanded his practice beyond Nigeria. Now returning as a judge for the second time, Ukonu’s continued involvement not only signals his personal growth but also reinforces the competition’s lasting impact in nurturing talent and building a community where artists evolve into industry shapers.
