Over the course of eleven editions, the COMEL Award has welcomed thousands of artworks, and we have witnessed first-hand the commitment and dedication required to bring a work of art to life. We know how much of themselves artists pour into their creations, especially when interpreting a theme that delves into profound and universal issues, such as this year’s topic: “Aluminium, the Silent Strength.”

For this reason, many participants have reached out to us requesting a few more days to complete their artworks, photograph them properly, and finalize their submissions on the website www.premiocomel.it. Acknowledging this, we felt it was only right to allow more time to those who are eager to participate, to showcase their work, and to compete for a place in the final exhibition of selected artworks, which will be held at the Spazio COMEL Contemporary Art Gallery in Latina from October 18 to November 8, 2025.

Therefore, the organization has decided to further extend—this time definitively—the submission deadline for the 12th edition of the COMEL Award to July 13, 2025.

The “silent strength” referenced in this edition’s theme alludes to a hidden resilience: the ability to move forward despite obstacles, to learn even from failure. It refers to a subtle yet transformative energy, one that does not impose itself but gradually brings about change—mirroring aluminium’s remarkable adaptability across countless applications, from construction to transportation, from daily life to industrial innovation, all despite its lightness.

The competition is open to all artists aged 18 and over who live or work in any European country. Thirteen finalists will be selected from the entries to participate in the final group exhibition. The winner will receive a prize of €3,500 and the opportunity to hold a solo exhibition with catalogue at Spazio COMEL. The public will also have an active role in the event by voting for the winner of the Audience Award, who will likewise be granted a solo show in Latina.

The jury, composed of distinguished professionals, will be 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 jury will be: 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, Maria Gabriella Mazzola, representing COMEL Industries, the promoting company and sole sponsor of the Award.

Participation is free of charge.