**BOCCF Launches Illustration Contest for Award-Winning Young Adult Book**
The Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation (BOCCF) has announced an exciting opportunity for illustrators and visual artists with the launch of a contest aimed at illustrating the award-winning book *As the Lady Says…* by Maria Papandreou. This initiative is part of the Foundation's commitment to promoting literature and the arts within the community.
*As the Lady Says…* recently garnered recognition in the children’s and young adult book writing contest organized by the Cyprus Association for Children’s and Young Adult Books, which is also sponsored by the BOCCF. The book is targeted at readers aged 11 and older and delves into themes of everyday life’s upheavals, loss, memory, and the resilience of the human spirit, all seen through the eyes of a child.
The narrative is described as a coming-of-age story that employs rich symbolism, emotional depth, and subtle humor to convey its messages. It invites readers to engage with concepts of memory that liberate rather than confine, and hope that serves as a conscious choice for life rather than a mere escape from reality. The story emphasizes the human capacity to love, dream, and grow despite life's challenges.
As part of its role as the sponsor, the BOCCF will oversee the publication and distribution of the book, which is slated for release in 2026. The contest is open to all Cypriot and Greek illustrators and visual artists, whether they are based in Cyprus or residing abroad. Notably, previous award winners from the BOCCF's illustration competitions are also encouraged to apply, provided that at least two years have passed since their last award.
Illustration submissions must be received by October 30, 2026. A four-member judging panel, appointed by the BOCCF, will assess the entries based on creativity, relevance to the book's themes, and overall artistic merit. The artist who secures the first prize will receive a monetary award of €1,500 and will collaborate with the publishing company responsible for bringing *As the Lady Says…* to life through illustrations.
Interested participants can find detailed information about the contest rules, submission guidelines, and the expression of interest form on the BOCCF's social media platforms and its official website at www.boccf.org. For further inquiries, individuals can also contact the Foundation directly at 22128175.
This initiative not only highlights the importance of visual storytelling in literature but also reinforces the BOCCF's dedication to nurturing artistic talent in Cyprus and beyond. As the project unfolds, it promises to contribute significantly to the cultural landscape, providing a platform for artists to showcase their skills while bringing a poignant narrative to a wider audience.