Illustrators and comic makers from across the Gulf region are invited to develop and publish original work through the eighth edition of Sharjah Art Foundation’s annual comics anthology.
3 June 2026
Open Call:
Sharjah Art Foundation has opened applications for Corniche 8, the latest edition of its annual comic anthology. The open call invites illustrators and comic artists based in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to submit a proposal for an original six-page comic for potential publication in the anthology. Selected artists will participate in a creative exchange in Sharjah and have their completed works published as part of the final volume.
Institutional Context:
Corniche is a community-centred publishing initiative developed by Sharjah Art Foundation to support comic artists and illustrators working across the GCC. The project originated from a collaborative comic-making workshop held in Sharjah in 2019 and has since evolved into an annual anthology that provides a platform for artists to experiment, connect and publish their work. The publication embraces a wide range of genres and storytelling approaches, including autobiography, science fiction, fantasy, mythology, history and contemporary narratives.
Sharjah Art Foundation is one of the leading contemporary arts organisations in the region, supporting artistic production through exhibitions, publications, grants, residencies and educational programmes.
Eligibility and Criteria:
The open call is available to illustrators and comic artists based in GCC countries. Applicants must submit a proposal for a six-page comic. The Foundation encourages diverse artistic voices and welcomes submissions across a broad range of themes, genres and visual approaches.
Projects should demonstrate originality, strong storytelling and a clear artistic vision. Both emerging and established practitioners are encouraged to apply.
Evaluation Process:
Submitted proposals will be reviewed by Sharjah Art Foundation. Selected artists will be invited to participate in a three-day creative exchange programme in Sharjah, where they will further develop their projects alongside fellow contributors. The completed comics will then be compiled and published in the eighth edition of Corniche.
Practical Information:
Corniche 8 will culminate in the publication of a printed anthology featuring the selected projects. The publication is scheduled to launch at Focal Point, Sharjah Art Foundation’s annual art book fair, which brings together independent publishers, artists’ presses and cultural producers from across the region and beyond.
The anthology serves as an important platform for visibility and professional development, connecting participants with a growing network of artists, publishers and readers interested in contemporary comics and illustration.
Deadline for application is 30 June 2026, 11:59 pm, UAE local time (GMT +4)
Applications and Queries:
Applications for Corniche 8 must be submitted through the Sharjah Art Foundation application platform before the stated deadline. Applicants should consult the Foundation’s website for detailed submission requirements, eligibility information and application procedures.
For further information, please refer to Sharjah Art Foundation’s website.
