International Children’s Painting Festival “Colors of Paradise” Now Accepting Applications

Shiraz invites all interested children aged 7 to 15 to participate in the drawing competition

Children fr om all over the world can embark on an amazing creative journey where brushes and paints unite cultures, and the ancient, poetic city of Shiraz becomes the main source of inspiration.

In 2026, one of Iran's most picturesque cities, Shiraz — the cradle of Persian poetry and gardens — will once again open its hospitable doors to young talents. The International Children’s Painting Festival “Colors of Paradise” is a competition wh ere every drawing becomes a story, and every story becomes part of a grand exhibition.

“Colors of Paradise” is an inclusive festival created for children to explore the cultural heritage of Shiraz through art and share the beauty of their own homelands. The organizers believe that creativity is a universal language, capable of uniting young people fr om different countries, showcasing the diversity of the world, and fostering respect for traditions.

Children and teenagers aged 7 to 15 (as of December 31, 2025) are invited to participate. The competition is held in two age categories: 7–10 years old and 11–15 years old.

The festival offers young artists the opportunity to showcase their talent in two sections: the main section — “Colors of Paradise: Shiraz” — wh ere participants can submit up to three works inspired by Shiraz’s cultural heritage, gardens, monuments, or landmarks; and the additional section — “My City, My Heritage” — wh ere participants are invited to create one work related to their own city or the heritage of their people.

To participate in the competition, it is necessary to complete the registration form in English, prepare clear, high-quality photographs or scanned images of the works (up to 5 MB each), and send them to aleksandr.satyukov@tatar.ru by March 2, 2026. You may find the registration form here.

Key requirements for the works:

The drawing must be original and created by hand (watercolor, gouache, pencils, oil, etc.);
Works created using AI, digitally made, or copied works are not allowed;
Minimum size: A3;
The theme must correspond to the chosen section.

The festival offers valuable prizes. For the winners of the main section:

First place: Airline tickets to Shiraz and accommodation for 4 nights for the winner and two accompanying persons;

Second place: Accommodation for 4 nights in Shiraz;

Third place: A cash prize of 200 USD.

For the winners of the additional section:

Special recognition award: A four-day stay in Shiraz for the winner and two guardians or a cash prize of 200 USD;
Special awards for distinguished finalists.

According to the festival rules, a prize in the additional section can only be claimed if the participant has also taken part in the main section.

Every young artist will receive a participant certificate, and the winners will receive diplomas. This will be a wonderful addition to their creative portfolio.

Applications can be submitted until March 2, 2026. Competition results will be announced in April, and the exhibition of selected works in Shiraz and the online gallery will take place in May and June.