Supporting the Talents of Children with Reading and Writing Difficulties Through "The Five Senses," Not Just "Letters." The 4th Dyslexia Art Competition 2026 to be Held! This Year's Theme is "Dyslexic Dreams."

NPO EDGE (Minato-ku, Tokyo; Chairperson: Eiko Dodo) will hold the "4th Dyslexia Art Competition 2026" for elementary, junior high, and high school students, as well as minors, who have difficulties with reading and writing, known as "dyslexia." Entries will open on July 1, 2026 (Wed), and we are seeking original and creative art pieces that align with this year's theme, "Dyslexic Dreams ~Dream of Dyslexia~."

▶ Official Page for the 4th Dyslexia Art Competition 2026

What is Dyslexia? "Invisible Difficulties" and "Unseen Talents"

Dyslexia is a learning disability where individuals have no intellectual developmental problems but struggle with reading and writing smoothly and accurately. It is reported to affect "2 to 3 students per 40-person class (approximately 8%)," but it is often difficult for those around them to notice, leading to misunderstandings that they are not trying hard enough.

However, while they may struggle with letter recognition, many of these children possess strong visual-spatial cognitive abilities, rich sensory perception, and excellent imagination and expressive power. This competition was launched with the aim of creating a "space where they can shine in their own way" and providing an opportunity to boost their self-esteem.

At the 3rd competition held last year, Mackenzie Thorpe, a UK bestselling artist and dyslexic himself, visited Japan. He personally praised the excellence of each participant's work, which was deeply moving.

Award winners from the 3rd Dyslexia Art Competition (Mackenzie Thorpe is in the center) A scene from last year's 3rd award ceremony.

The 4th Theme is "Dyslexic Dreams ~Dream of Dyslexia~"

For the fourth time, this year's theme is "Dyslexic Dreams." We are seeking entries created with free and unconventional methods.

Our judges include individuals who are dyslexic and active in society, such as Yuhi Shimomura, Communication Designer at the Digital Agency; Karubi, a popular YouTuber from Kotobuki Channel DIY; and Yuu Saito, an art university student. They will judge the works with an understanding of the children's sensibilities.

Competition Overview

<Eligibility>

Individuals with dyslexia (children with reading and writing difficulties; diagnosis not required to apply)

Japanese Schools: Grades 3-12, and minors

International Schools/Overseas Schools: Ages 8-18

Nationality and place of residence are not a barrier (※However, prize money must be receivable within Japan).

<Submission Theme>

"Dyslexic Dreams" ~Dream of Dyslexia~ (Unpublished original work, one entry per person)

<Artwork Content>

Paintings, digital art, sculptures, videos (under 1 minute), or any other medium is acceptable.

<Prizes>

Grand Prize: 1 winner - ¥20,000

Excellence Award: 2 winners - ¥10,000 each

Honorable Mention: 4 winners - ¥5,000 each

<Schedule>

Entry Period: July 1, 2026 (Wed) - August 31, 2026 (Mon)

※ Those who are "still deciding" can also submit an expression of intent to enter first.

Artwork Submission Period: July 1, 2026 (Wed) - September 7, 2026 (Mon)

Announcement of Award Winners: September 19, 2026 (Sat) Afternoon (scheduled)

<How to Apply>

Download and sign the guardian's "Consent Form" from the official website, and apply through the dedicated form along with your artwork data (photos or video URL).

▶ Detailed Application Guidelines for the 4th Dyslexia Art Competition 2026

【NPO EDGE】

Established in 2001. We are a support group for individuals with dyslexia (a learning disability characterized by difficulties with reading and writing despite normal intellectual development), aiming to promote correct understanding and support. Chairperson Eiko Dodo has served on government committees for the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, and has been deeply involved in the legislative processes of laws such as the "Act on Support for Persons with Developmental Disabilities," the "Textbook Barrier-Free Act," and the "Reading Barrier-Free Act." We strive to create a society where individuals can live vibrantly through awareness activities, training for supporters, and network building.

Location: Nishiyama Bldg. 4F, 4-7-1 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0014 Official Website: https://www.npo-edge.jp/ Contact Us: https://npo-edge.jp/contact/