Voices of Iran is a global art initiative created to bring together powerful visual expressions responding to recent events in Iran and the ongoing movement for freedom, dignity, and identity. Artists have always played a vital role in documenting history, raising awareness, and amplifying the voices of people who demand change. This exhibition aims to collect those artistic voices in one powerful platform.

We invite graphic designers, illustrators, painters, cartoonists, and visual artists from across the globe to submit their protest artworks inspired by the spirit of resistance, courage, and hope.

From all submitted works, 50 selected pieces will be chosen and featured in the Voices of Iran exhibition in the United States. The selected artworks will become part of a curated collection that documents this important historical moment through art.

This project is more than an exhibition. It is an archive of artistic resistance and a global platform where visual storytellers express solidarity with the Iranian people.

Alongside the exhibition, we are launching a global creative action called Wall of Voices. Artists are encouraged to print their artwork and place it in public spaces in their cities, photograph it, and share it online. From Los Angeles to Berlin, Toronto to London, the goal is to create a worldwide visual wave of protest art.

Organizer:

This initiative is organized by the Iranian Graphic Designers Network (IGDN), founded in 2000 in Tehran, one of the first independent design networks of its kind, dedicated to supporting designers and expanding visual culture internationally.

Content Guidelines:

Submitted works should focus on human, social, and conceptual experiences, and avoid direct political or ideological statements. Any use of images, symbols, or direct references to political figures, governmental entities, or political events is not permitted and will result in disqualification. Explicit depictions of violence, conflict, or shocking imagery are discouraged and may negatively affect the evaluation process. Participants are encouraged to communicate their ideas through creative, metaphorical, and indirect visual language. The primary focus of the works should be on human narratives, lived conditions, and shared experiences, rather than promotional messages or direct positioning.

Main Themes:

1. Internet Shutdown

Living in moments when connection is completely cut off. Experiencing digital silence, isolation, and a world that suddenly becomes inaccessible.

2. Life Under Pressure and Suspension

Living under increasing economic and everyday pressures while the future remains uncertain and suspended. Continuing forward within instability.

3. Collective Exhaustion and Continuation

A shared state of mental and emotional fatigue, combined with the ongoing effort to move forward. A balance between exhaustion and resilience.

Global Open Call:

Artists around the world are invited to participate in this international open call. We welcome powerful visual works that reflect contemporary perspectives through creativity, courage, and originality. This platform encourages bold ideas, honest expression, and artistic freedom.

Categories:

Graphic Design
Illustration
Cartoon
AI Artwork

Works should demonstrate originality, concept, and creative direction beyond basic AI generation.

Selection & Awards:

 First Prize — $250
 Second Prize — $150
 Third Prize — $100

Selected and awarded artists will receive:

• Official signed certificate
• Custom-designed award trophy
• Exhibition in Los Angeles, USA
• Publication in the printed exhibition catalog
• International media coverage
• Personalized QR code on the award linking to the artist’s profile

These elements create real value beyond the award itself. From all submissions only 50 artworks will be selected for the exhibition.

Exhibition & Global Expansion:

The main exhibition will take place in Los Angeles, USA. We are actively working to expand the exhibition to other countries including Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and more. VOIA is designed as an evolving global platform with long-term international presence. Supported by international designers, institutions, and creative communities.

International Jury Panel:

Voices of Iran Design & Exhibition Award is evaluated by a carefully curated international jury of leading voices in contemporary visual culture.

All submissions go through a multi-stage review process to ensure a high standard of quality, integrity, and conceptual strength. The final selection is made by the main jury panel, reflecting diverse perspectives across design, art, and cultural disciplines.

• Stefan Sagmeister
• David Carson
• Debbie Millman
• Astrid Stavro
• Gail Anderson
• Jennifer Morla
• Javier Jaén
• Finn Nygaard
• Pablo Delcan

• Submission Information:

Specific submission guidelines and full details are available on the official website: www.graphiciran.net

• Each participant may submit a maximum of 3 artworks
• Artwork size must be A3 format
• Resolution must be 300 DPI
• File format for online submission: JPG, JPEG

Max upload Size: 10MB + Size: (Min 3508px)

All entries must be submitted through the official website upload system and will be displayed in the online gallery. Participants are also required to send a high-resolution print-ready version via email: VOIA@graphiciran.net – The print version must match the submitted artwork and meet professional quality standards.

Rules & Eligibility:

• All works must be original
• AI-assisted works are allowed if directed by the artist
• Works must not violate copyright or intellectual property rights
• Previously published works are accepted if full rights belong to the artist

By submitting their work, participants grant IGDN the right to:

• Exhibit the works in physical and digital formats
• Publish them in the official catalog
• Use them for promotional purposes with proper credit

Timeline:

• Submissions Open: May 22, 2026
• Submission Deadline: Aug 22, 2026 — 11:59 PM PT
• IGDN Review Period: Sep 6–12, 2026
• Jury Review Period: Sep 13–22, 2026
• Winners Announcement: Sep 28, 2026
• Exhibition Period: Oct 10–20, 2026 — Los Angeles, USA
• Official Book Publication: Nov 27, 2026

If the exhibition is extended to other countries, further details will be announced accordingly. As we continue to grow this global platform, we are actively seeking prize sponsors and strategic partners to support and expand this initiative. All updates, including new sponsors and partners, will be shared on: www.graphiciran.net

 Instagram: @graphiciran

 Facebook: @voicesofiran.awards

Website: Graphiciran.net

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