{
  "id": 12312080,
  "title": "Embassy concludes Japan-Qatar illustration contest",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/06/embassy-concludes-japan-qatar-illustration-contest",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-06T05:53:40.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Peninsula Qatar",
    "slug": "the-peninsula-qatar",
    "url": "https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/06/10/2026/embassy-concludes-japan-qatar-illustration-contest"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Doha, Qatar - The Embassy of Japan in Qatar, alongside local cultural partners Geekdom and Nakama, concluded the second edition of the Japan-Qatar Illustration Contest. The event wrapped up with a lively award ceremony during \"Geekend 2026,\" recognizing the winning illustrations for their outstanding creativity and intercultural storytelling. The contest opened on July 19, 2026, and invited artists of all abilities to submit original artwork centered around the theme \"Crossroads of Legends: My Original Japan-Qatar Hero/Heroine.\" Over 100 submissions were received in three categories: Digital, Traditional, and U-13 for children. A distinguished panel of guest judges selected the winners. Ambassador of Japan to Qatar H.E. Naoto Hisajima praised all participants and hoped such initiatives would further strengthen the strong Japan-Qatar partnership. First prize went to Sumam Azzam for his artwork \"Where Sand Meets the Rising Sun,\" featuring a mysterious superhero named \"Duneglass\" who roams deserts worldwide, defending them from threats. French animator Mehdi Aouichaoui, who has worked on several Japanese anime productions, served as a special guest judge. At the award ceremony, eight winners across three categories received prizes from sponsors Teyseer Motors - Suzuki, Fnac Qatar, Daiso Japan, and Iwatani Corporation.",
  "summary": "<p>Doha, Qatar: The Embassy of Japan in Qatar, in collaboration with local cultural partners Geekdom and Nakama, successfully concluded the second edition of the Japan-Qatar Illustration Contest.</p> <p>The event culminated in a vibrant award ceremony held during “Geekend 2026,” honoring the winning illustrations for their exceptional creativity and cross-cultural storytelling.</p> <p>Launched on…",
  "key_points": [
    "Japan-Qatar Embassy hosted Illustration Contest",
    "Over 100 submissions received in three categories",
    "Sumam Azzam won first prize for \"Where Sand Meets the Rising Sun\""
  ],
  "editors_take": "The contest strengthens Japan-Qatar ties by showcasing intercultural storytelling through art, highlighting the partnership between the two nations through creative exchanges and initiatives.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}