Threading on Pablo Picasso’s philosophy that “Every child is an artist; the problem is staying an artist when you grow up”, BIC, a leader in stationery, lighters, and shavers, announces its Art Master Africa competition kick -off.
Speaking on the competition, Gregory Alibaux, Art Master Africa custodian, and Marketing Director for Middle East and Africa at BIC, expressed delight for the anticipated art contest that will expose Africa’s young artists to the world.
“We are pleased to kick-off the highly anticipated competition, Art Master Africa. We continue to provide a platform for artists and creatives in the region to help them express themselves – all in line with our commitment to encourage self-expression and creativity.
This year is special for the competition as it also marks the year where we elevated the programme by launching an Art Master Africa metaverse gallery, crossing borders and bringing African talent to the world,” Alibaux said.
The 2024 art competition which is on its sixth edition, calls on creatives across the region to depict their interpretation of Ubuntu (or One Africa), the competition’s theme, using the iconic BIC ballpoint pen.
Participants are expected to express what unity and interconnectedness within Africa means to them.
The BIC art competition has recorded over 6,000 creatives participants from across the region.
According to the organisers, submissions of entries will be effective from April 19, 2024 through the BIC Art Master Africa website. “Participants will have three months to complete their artwork before judging takes place, followed by the winner announcements in the last quarter of the year. Entries will be judged based on creativity, originality, and technical skills.”
“First, second, and third place winners will be rewarded by BIC with the sum of $2,000, $1,000, and $500 respectively. A total of nine winners from across the region will also be announced and awarded,” organisers added.
Artwork of selected participants will be included in various art platforms owned by BIC, including the most recently launched Art Master Africa Metaverse Gallery.
Art Master Africa was incepted in 2017 in South Africa. After becoming highly anticipated within the art community, the competition expanded into the wider Middle East and Africa regions.
Every year, a theme is introduced by BIC, that creatives are asked to depict using the BIC ballpoint pen.
For more than 75 years, BIC has honored the tradition of providing high-quality, affordable, essential products to consumers everywhere. Through this unwavering dedication, the company has become one of the most recognized brands and is a trademark registered worldwide.
