Basel, Switzerland is set to become a vibrant hub for comic art this spring, hosting a fresh international competition that will culminate in a unique public exhibition. The competition, a first-of-its-kind collaboration between the Cartoonmuseum Basel, FANTASY BASEL – The Swiss Comic Con, the Christoph Merian Foundation, and Basel Tourism, invites illustrators from around the globe to submit their perform under the theme of “Friendship.” This initiative aims to elevate the profile of comic art within the city and establish Basel as a significant destination for the “ninth art,” as comics are often called.
The competition isn’t just about artistic recognition; it’s about bringing art directly to the public. Selected works will be displayed on large-format flags along the Mittlere Rheinbrücke bridge in Basel from May 4th to May 18th, 2026, transforming the iconic landmark into an open-air gallery. This innovative approach to public art installation underscores Basel’s commitment to fostering a dynamic cultural landscape. The winning entries will as well be showcased at FANTASY BASEL, Switzerland’s largest comic convention, from May 14th to 16th, 2026, offering artists a platform to connect with a wide audience and industry professionals.
A Celebration of ‘Freundschaft’ and the Ninth Art
The core concept driving this competition is “Friendship,” a theme chosen to inspire artists to explore the multifaceted nature of human connection through the visual storytelling medium of comics. Organizers hope to notice diverse interpretations of friendship, reflecting the varied cultural backgrounds and artistic styles of the participants. The competition seeks to not only highlight existing talent but also to nurture emerging artists, with a dedicated portion of the selected works reserved for newcomers to the scene. This focus on inclusivity aims to broaden the reach of comic art and encourage participation from a wider range of creators.
The initiative is a deliberate effort to strengthen the visibility of comics as a contemporary art form. Traditionally, comics have sometimes been relegated to a niche category, but this competition seeks to challenge that perception by embedding them within the public space and presenting them within the context of a curated exhibition. The Christoph Merian Foundation, known for its support of contemporary art and culture, plays a crucial role in this effort, bringing its expertise in exhibition design and artistic programming to the project. Basel Tourism’s involvement further emphasizes the city’s ambition to attract visitors interested in art and culture.
Competition Details and Eligibility
The competition is open to all creators who consider themselves artists of the “ninth art,” regardless of nationality or professional status. Artists are invited to submit comic stories with a maximum length of two pages. A total of 20 comics will be selected by a jury, with five of those selections specifically designated for emerging artists. All submitted works, even those not selected for the flag installation or the main exhibition, will be presented in a digital format, ensuring that a wider range of artistic voices is showcased. The deadline for submissions is March 15, 2026.
The financial incentives for participating artists are substantial. Each of the 20 selected artists will receive a remuneration of 1,500 Swiss Francs (CHF). In addition to the financial reward, artists will also receive four one-day tickets to FANTASY BASEL – The Swiss Comic Con 2026, providing them with access to the convention’s workshops, panels, and networking opportunities. A travel allowance of 500 CHF will also be provided to help cover expenses. All selected artists will be invited to the vernissage (opening reception) on May 4, 2026, although travel expenses for the vernissage are not covered.
FANTASY BASEL: A Cornerstone of Swiss Comic Culture
FANTASY BASEL – The Swiss Comic Con, a key partner in this initiative, has established itself as a leading event for comic enthusiasts in Switzerland and beyond. According to the event’s official website, the convention attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year, showcasing a diverse range of comics, manga, anime, and related pop culture phenomena. The convention provides a platform for artists, publishers, and fans to connect, exchange ideas, and celebrate the art of visual storytelling. Its partnership with the Cartoonmuseum Basel and the Christoph Merian Foundation demonstrates a commitment to supporting the growth and development of the comic art scene in Switzerland.
The Cartoonmuseum Basel – Centre for Narrative Art, another vital partner, is dedicated to the preservation, research, and exhibition of comic art. The museum’s curatorial expertise will be instrumental in designing the exhibition at FANTASY BASEL, ensuring that the selected works are presented in a compelling and informative manner. The museum’s collection includes a wide range of comics from Switzerland and around the world, reflecting the diversity and richness of the medium. The museum’s involvement underscores the importance of institutional support in fostering a thriving comic art community.
Impact and Future Outlook
This competition represents a significant investment in the cultural landscape of Basel and a bold step towards establishing the city as a prominent center for comic art. By bringing art into the public sphere and providing opportunities for both established and emerging artists, the initiative aims to inspire creativity, foster dialogue, and attract visitors. The use of the Mittlere Rheinbrücke as an exhibition space is particularly noteworthy, transforming a functional infrastructure element into a dynamic cultural landmark. The organizers hope that this project will serve as a model for similar initiatives in other cities, demonstrating the power of comics to engage and enrich communities.
The long-term vision extends beyond this single competition. Organizers hope to build on this momentum to create a sustainable ecosystem for comic art in Basel, fostering collaborations between artists, institutions, and the local community. This could involve establishing new galleries, workshops, and educational programs, as well as attracting further investment in the sector. The success of this initiative will depend on continued support from the Christoph Merian Foundation, Basel Tourism, and other stakeholders, as well as the ongoing enthusiasm of the artists and the public.
The competition’s focus on the theme of “Friendship” is particularly relevant in today’s world, where social connections and understanding are more important than ever. Comics, with their ability to convey complex emotions and narratives through visual storytelling, are uniquely suited to explore this theme. The selected works are likely to offer a diverse range of perspectives on friendship, reflecting the challenges and rewards of human relationships in a globalized world.
The next key date for artists interested in participating is March 15, 2026, the submission deadline. Further information about the competition, including submission guidelines and eligibility requirements, can be found on the official website: www.basel.com. The exhibition on the Mittlere Rheinbrücke will then transform Basel’s cityscape from May 4th to 18th, 2026, offering a unique and accessible art experience for residents and visitors alike.
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