June 1, 2026
Taiwan’s E.SUN Bank is making an international appeal for artists to participate in the E.SUN Art Awards 2026. The competition invites painters from across the globe to artistically interpret the beauty and spirit of Yushan (Mt. Jade), Taiwan’s tallest and most celebrated mountain.
Entries for the International Category are open to artists worldwide, with a grand prize of $36,000 USD, and encourage participants to explore the relationship between nature, music and visual art through original paintings.
Chee-Keng, Yap: ‘Yushan on the Screen,’ 2022, acrylic painting, 91.5x61cm // Courtesy of E.SUN Bank
Since its inception, the E.SUN Art Awards have attracted more than 5,000 submissions representing 72 countries across five continents, strengthening its reputation as one of Taiwan’s most prominent international art competitions. Artists may submit works created in oil, acrylic or gouache, allowing for a wide range of interpretations inspired by Yushan’s dramatic scenery and rich cultural meaning. Applicants are encouraged to bring innovative and contemporary viewpoints to Yushan, a mountain admired for generations for its breathtaking presence, ecological importance and spiritual symbolism.
Hai-Hui, Wang: ‘The Treasures of Yushan,’ 2022, oil painting, 70 x 70cm // Courtesy of E.SUN Bank
The 2026 edition highlights the interconnected themes of music and nature, encouraging artists to transform rhythm, feeling and environmental consciousness into compelling visual narratives. Through this artistic dialogue, the awards seek to promote a deeper understanding of the natural environment while emphasizing the emotional ties between landscape, sound and human imagination. Applicants are encouraged to integrate musical elements into paintings to showcase the power of music.
Applications for the International Category are submitted entirely online. Alongside the top prize, the competition also presents Special Selection and Outstanding Awards.
Application Info
event.esunbank.com
Deadline: July 17, 2026; 11:59pm Taipei Time (UTC+8)
