The AOI, in partnership with the Directory of Illustration, is delighted to announce the 200 projects that have been shortlisted by the judges for the World Illustration Awards 2021. The shortlist has been selected by the judges from over 5,280 entries from 82 countries following a rigorous and competitive judging process.
“A compelling image is unforgettable. I have great admiration for artists with the talent to create memorable illustrations out of complex scientific notions, such as those shortlisted for these Awards. It’s been delightful but difficult to choose among so many splendid illustrators.”
– Science & Technology Category judge Elena Becker-Barroso, PhD Hon DSc, Editor, The Lancet Neurology
The Shortlist presents some of the most striking illustration work from around the world. It is an important way for commissioners to discover quality illustrators to work with.
“The World Illustration Awards offer a brilliant platform to discover exciting new illustrators. The shortlist brings diverse talent from across the world together in one place. Illustrators at every career stage, from emerging to established are represented. The shortlist is a fantastic place to find global talent and in the face of recent challenges, now more than ever, it’s so important for the industry to connect illustrators with new clients and commissions.”
– Ren Renwick, CEO, The AOI
The shortlisted 200 projects are included in an exciting, dynamic Online Showcase curated by the AOI’s Awards Teams, with contributions from partners and judges. Featuring interviews, work in context, showreels and sketches, the showcase is a celebration of great illustration and the stories behind the illustrations.
A printed catalogue featuring all 200 projects is circulated to commissioners world-wide to further promote shortlisted entrants. This will also be available for sale through the AOI website.
All shortlisted projects are in contention to win, and on 12 October 2021, the Category Winning and Highly Commended projects in each category will be announced online in a live broadcast event. Two Overall Winners will receive cash prizes.
An online Celebration Programme of events and masterclasses will run throughout October and November, highlighting areas of current importance, including alternative routes into illustration, and exploring the importance of increasing diversity within the industry.
The World Illustration Awards is a year-long celebration and showcase of illustration, bringing together creatives, industry, commissioners and art directors, celebrating great illustration on a scale like never before.