Graphic Stories invites creatives from around the world to participate in the international poster contest themed “Poetry Speaks Loud.”
The contest is part of the 12th Graphic Stories ConFest for Graphic Design and Visual Communication, to be held in 2026.
The international poster contest “Poetry Speaks Loud” is organised by Graphic Stories Cyprus (NGO), in collaboration with Alexander College, within the framework of the 12th Graphic Stories ConFest, with Parachute Typefoundry as the gift sponsor.
Creative Concept
Poetry is the pulse of the human soul. It is the rhythm that transforms silence into voice, emotions into images, and words into breath. Just as poets shape language, designers shape light, colour, and form.
When poetry meets design, a new universal visual language is born — one that speaks directly to the heart.
The “Poetry Speaks Loud” contest invites creators to bring poetry into the public space through the medium of the poster. Participants are encouraged to visually interpret verses that have touched them, or poets who have inspired them, whether from their own country or from anywhere in the world.
The choice of poem is open, because poetry knows no borders — it is our shared language. It may be a single line or an entire poem. What matters is the visual interpretation: the moment typography gains rhythm, silence becomes space, and the poet’s voice finds a new form through image.
Each poster becomes an ode to the power of word and image — a bridge between literature and graphic design. Through this creative process, a global collection of visual poetry emerges: a mosaic of cultures, aesthetics, and voices. Each poster also becomes a carrier of cultural heritage, reflecting the language and spirit of its people.
Thus, louder than ever, poetry speaks again — through gaze, light, and the creative vision of designers.
Categories & Awards
Awards & gifts with a total value of €3,000
1. International Award – Professionals
Font package by Parachute Typefoundry (value €500)
Award by Graphic Stories Cyprus (NGO)
2. International Award – Higher Education Students
Font package by Parachute Typefoundry (value €500)
Award by Graphic Stories Cyprus (NGO)
3. Cyprus Award – Higher Education Students
Font package by Parachute Typefoundry (value €500)
Award by Graphic Stories Cyprus (NGO)
4. Cyprus Award – High School & Technical School Students
Font package by Parachute Typefoundry (value €500)
Award by Graphic Stories Cyprus (NGO)
The four first-prize winners (one from each category) will receive their awards and gifts from the organisers and the gift sponsor.
Additionally, 50 shortlisted entries will receive a Certificate of Distinction, and their works will be presented in the exhibition.
Eligibility
The contest is international and open to:
Professionals in visual communication, graphic design, illustration, fine and applied arts
Category Code: GSCP01Higher Education students (universities or colleges) in the above fields
Category Code: GSCP02Higher Education students in Cyprus
Category Code: GSCP03High school and technical school students in Cyprus
Category Code: GSCP04
Exhibition & Jury
The four winning posters and the 50 shortlisted works will be presented in the official exhibitions, opening:
8 May 2026 at Alexander College, following the Conference talks
18 July 2026 at En Plo Gallery, Paphos
Good luck to all participants!