The deadline to apply for the 12th edition of the COMEL Award “Aluminium, the Silent Strength” has been extended to July 6, 2025. Artists now have a few extra days to submit their work to the competition, which promotes the artistic use of aluminium in keeping with this year’s theme.

The “silent strength” referenced in the title speaks of a hidden power: it lies in the lightness and malleability of aluminium, qualities that do not prevent it from adapting to a wide range of uses and withstanding even the most intense stress. It is no coincidence that this metal is widely used in construction, transportation, engineering, and many aspects of daily life.

This silent strength is also found in people: in those who, despite adversity, manage to persevere, to learn and grow during difficult times, and to choose life even in moments of despair. A strength that does not impose itself, but slowly brings about transformation.

Aluminium thus becomes both a medium and a metaphor for this capacity for renewal, for rediscovering oneself after hardship. Artists are invited to engage with this material to convey a moment of redemption, of transformation: a passage in which their inner strength—discreet yet powerful—emerged.

The competition is open to all artists aged 18 and over who live or work in one of the countries of the European continent. Out of all entries, 13 finalists will be selected. Their works will be exhibited at the COMEL Contemporary Art Space in Latina, Italy, from October 18 to November 8, 2025.

One winner will be chosen from among the finalists and awarded a €3,500 cash prize, along with the opportunity to hold a solo exhibition with a dedicated catalogue at the COMEL Art Space. The public will also have a chance to participate by voting for the Audience Award, whose recipient will likewise be invited to present a solo show in Latina.

The works will be evaluated by a distinguished jury chaired by Giorgio Agnisola, art critic, writer, and Professor Emeritus of Sacred Art and Cultural Heritage at the Pontifical Theological Faculty of Southern Italy. Joining him on the panel are: Franco Marrocco, Director of the Brera Academy and artist; Francesca Tuscano, art historian and critic, Director of the Civic Art Museum of Olevano Romano; Matilde Di Muro, architect, art historian and critic, journalist and lecturer; and Maria Gabriella Mazzola, representing COMEL Industries, the company that founded and solely sponsors the Award.