Winners of the 40th Aydın Doğan International Cartoon Competition Are Announced

Celebrating its 40th anniversary and having brought together over 9,000 artists and their works from across the globe, the Aydın Doğan International Cartoon Competition announced its winners following the deliberations of the international jury.

Celebrating its 40^th anniversary and having brought together over 9,000 artists and their works from across the globe, the Aydın Doğan International Cartoon Competition announced its winners following the deliberations of the international jury.

Known as the “Oscars of Cartoon”, the competition awarded its grand prize to Mohammad Ali Khalaji, from Iran, while the second prize went to Marcel Claudiu Morariu, from Romania, and the third prize to Pascal Gelu, also from Romania. The “Empowered Girls, Empowered Futures” special award was presented to Camila de la Fuente, from Mexico.

Bringing together over 9,000 artists and their works from around the world, the Aydın Doğan International Cartoon Competition—recognized as one of the most prestigious events in the world of cartoon art—marked its 40^th edition this year, once again making a significant impact on the art scene. Dubbed the “Oscars of Cartoon,” the competition’s winners were selected following a meticulous evaluation by an international jury.

This year, the grand prize was awarded to Mohammad Ali Khalaji from Iran, while the second prize went to Marcel Claudiu Morariu from Romania, and the third prize was claimed by Pascal Gelu, also from Romania. Additionally, reflecting the Aydın Doğan Foundation’s commitment to social and gender equality, the “Empowered Girls, Empowered Futures” Award was presented to Camila de la Fuente, from Mexico.

One of the Most Prestigious Cartoon Competition of the World

Organized by the Aydın Doğan Foundation, which champions cartoon art as a universal language of tolerance and insight, the competition goes beyond being just an art event—it stands as a global platform for artists from diverse cultures to freely express their ideas. Marking its 40^th edition this year, the competition remains one of the most prestigious and influential events in the international cartooning world.

This year’s competition saw a remarkable turnout, with 529 cartoonists from 67 countries submitting an impressive 1,137 pieces. The overwhelming response reaffirms the event’s rising influence and its powerful draw for artists across the globe.

Renowned Artists Lead Esteemed Jury Meeting

This year’s competition was judged by a prestigious meeting of world-renowned cartoonists, each recognized for their significant contributions to the art world. Under the leadership of acclaimed Turkish artist Gürbüz Doğan Ekşioğlu, the jury featured an impressive lineup of industry veterans, including Ercan Akyol (Türkiye), Rafael Correa (Brazil), Piyale Madra (Türkiye), Firoozeh Mozaffari (Iran), Tan Oral (Türkiye), Edel Rodriguez (USA), Tjeerd Royaards (Netherlands), and Ross Thomson (UK). Known for their keen artistic eye and dedication to excellence, the panel’s meticulous evaluations continue to set new benchmarks for creativity and craftsmanship in the competition.

The Aydın Doğan Foundation’s prestigious ‘Empowered Girls, Empowered Futures’ Award — dedicated to promoting equal opportunities for girls and young women in all areas of life — was presented this year to Camila de la Fuente, from Mexico. This meaningful accolade not only celebrates artistic excellence but also underscores the competition’s vital role in driving social awareness and advocacy.

Success Awards

The Selection Committee honored Javad Takjoo and Marzieh Khanizadeh Abyaneh from Iran, along with Hamit Gış from Türkiye, with this year’s Success Awards. The competition’s top prize winners will receive $6,000 for first place, $2,500 for second place, and $1,000 for third place. The prestigious ‘Empowered Girls, Empowered Futures’ Award, dedicated to promoting gender equality, will grant a $3,000 prize. Additionally, each Success Award recipient will be awarded $500 in recognition of their success.

The Universal Power of Art

The Aydın Doğan International Cartoon Competition has once again highlighted the unifying power of art and the universal language of cartoons. This prestigious event continues to earn praise from art enthusiasts, not only for celebrating its winners but for honoring all participants as well. For 40 years, the Aydın Doğan International Cartoon Competition has upheld this tradition, reinforcing the power of art to transcend borders and connect people worldwide. Art lovers can explore the competition’s rich history and remarkable works by visiting its virtual museum at https://sanalmuze.aydindoganvakfi.org.tr/