Application Guidelines
Click here to apply
- May 26 - Start of illustrator applications
- June 6 - Deadline of submissions
July 2025
- Mid-July - Announcement of shortlisted applications
September 2025
- September 12 to 14 - Manila Illustration Fair at the Parola Gallery Atrium,
UP Diliman College of Fine Arts
- Application is open to local and international illustrators. 30 illustrators will be shortlisted.
- To ensure a fair distribution of participants, 15 slots are allotted for illustrators from the Greater Manila area, 10 for Filipino illustrators from outside the Greater Manila area, and 5 for those based outside the Philippines.
- Applicants must submit a PDF document containing a short bio and 5 illustrations and their titles. Descriptions are not necessary. When submitting, please name the PDF following the format “Name_MIF2025.pdf” (ex. Juan Lopez_MIF2025.pdf)
- We value original work. Plagiarism is STRICTLY not allowed.
- Works made through generative AI are not permitted.
- Applicants must be respectful and promote inclusivity in their work. No bigotry will be tolerated.
- Original illustrations are preferred. We can allow you to submit up to 2 pieces of fan art but we highly encourage original works for your application. This will allow us to get a clearer picture of your unique artistic voice.
Failure to follow instructions will lead to disqualification.
For Shortlisted Illustrators
- Shortlisted illustrators will be given a table to participate at Manila Illustration Fair. They can choose to exhibit or sell their work given this space. All income from their sales will belong to the illustrators.
- Shortlisted illustrators must be able to travel to Quezon City to exhibit their works from at least September 11 (ingress day) to September 14. This is a whole-day event on all days.
- Each artist’s space includes:
- 1x 3x6 table
- 2x monoblock chairs
- 1x backdrop panel
- Illustrators may bring 1 assistant or friend to help them man their booth. Extra IDs will be provided for them.
- The table fee is as follows:
- PHP 3,000.00 for exhibiting illustrators based in the Greater Manila area (Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal)
- PHP 1,500.00 for exhibiting illustrators based outside Greater Manila area
- USD 150.00 for exhibiting international illustrators
Frequently Asked Questions
You need a total of 5 illustration works and a very short writeup about yourself.
When submitting, please name the PDF following the format “Name_MIF2025.pdf” (ex. Juan Lopez_MIF2025.pdf)
What do I get for participating in MIF 2025?
We will provide shortlisted participants with dedicated platforms to showcase their work and a community network of illustrators to help them grow their practice in the future.
During the fair, you will have your own table, two chairs, and a backdrop to hang or display anything you want. You’re also free to attend any talks, activities, and workshops during the event itself. You have full freedom to make the most out of the fair, as long as you participate and showcase your work.
More details will be provided in the future for shortlisted participants.
Can I reapply if I’ve exhibited in past Manila Illustration Fairs?
We are not currently taking reapplications for MIF. Due to the scale of the event, we can only accommodate a small number of exhibitors and we’d love to give other illustrators the chance to showcase their work.
Can illustrators using any medium (traditional or digital) apply?
Yes of course!
However, if you plan to submit a sample of your work made with traditional mediums, you will need to scan or take a photo of your work to be uploaded on the application form.
How will you be in contact about the results of my application?
We’ll be sending the results (regardless of acceptance or not) via the email you used to apply.
How many will be shortlisted? When will I hear back about the results?
We’ll be shortlisting 30 participants. Results should come in mid-July, barring any delays!
We’ll be in touch regardless.
Can I edit my application after submission?
No. Please double-check your application for any typos and wrong information before you press Submit.
If we’re unable to contact you due to typos or errors, we may have to disqualify your application.
Do I need to physically be there for the fair? Can I have an assistant or friend as my proxy?
You, the illustrator, are expected to be at the fair.
However, you’re free to bring an assistant or friend to help you with the booth logistics. You can switch assistants, but only up to 2 people can be behind the table at a time to ensure that the tables are not overcrowded.
What are the table fees?
- PHP 3,000.00 for exhibiting illustrators based in the Greater Manila area (Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal)
- PHP 1,500 for exhibiting Filipino illustrators based outside Greater Manila area
- USD 150.00 for exhibiting international illustrators
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