Global Canvas 2026: The Book of Life - Art Contest

Global Canvas 2026: The Book of Life invites children and young people from around the world to take part in one of the largest international wildlife art competitions. Organised by the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, Global Canvas encourages young artists to use creativity as a powerful voice for wildlife conservation.

Through art, participants are challenged to reflect on the natural world, understand the urgency of protecting biodiversity, and inspire action to preserve life on Earth.

About Global Canvas

Global Canvas is an annual international art competition for children and young people up to 16 years of age. Each year features a unique theme designed to deepen awareness of wildlife, the environment, and conservation challenges.

The competition empowers young artists to create, inspire, and protect, using art as a medium to express ideas about safeguarding the planet’s living systems.

Theme for 2026: The Book of Life

The Book of Life represents Earth’s extraordinary biodiversity, holding millions of species—from microscopic plankton to majestic elephants. Each new species discovered adds a page, while every extinction removes one forever.

Young artists are invited to explore questions such as:

• How can we protect endangered species?

• How can habitats be restored and conserved?

• How can we stop illegal wildlife trade?

• What actions can help preserve biodiversity for future generations?

For Global Canvas 2026, participants are asked to show how we can save the Book of Life forever through creative expression.

Key Dates

• Entry Closes: 19 February 2026

• Winners Announced: Live final on 1 May 2026

Who Can Enter

• Children and young people aged 4 to 16 years

• Sub-categories:

  • Ages 4–7

  • Ages 8–11

  • Ages 12–16

• Individuals or groups

  • Groups must have a minimum of two participants

• Open to participants worldwide

Artwork Guidelines

• Any art medium is welcome, including:

  • Painting

  • Drawing

  • Sculpture

  • Collage

  • Textiles

  • Mixed media

• Use of recycled and found materials is especially encouraged

Entry Options

• Individual Entries: Children can submit their own individual artwork

• Group Entries: Schools, clubs, families, or groups can submit collaborative artwork

Separate entry forms are available for individual and group submissions.

Prizes and Recognition

Winners in each category will receive:

• Art supply vouchers or cash awards

• Winners’ certificates

• Online showcase of finalist artwork

• Winners announced during the official Awards Ceremony

Global Canvas 2026: The Book of Life is more than an art competition—it is a global call for young voices to speak up for wildlife and the environment. Through creativity and imagination, participants can help tell the story of Earth’s biodiversity and inspire others to protect it before more pages are lost forever.

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