World Illustration Awards

The World Illustration Awards is the most prestigious annual illustration award globally representing illustration across eight categories. With over 2,000 entries annually from 60+ countries, the shortlist reflects exceptional work by illustrators currently making an outstanding contribution to visual culture.

Work entered into the World Illustration Awards is reviewed by a jury of distinguished and international industry professionals who select a Professional and New Talent winner for each category as well as two overall winners. Shortlisted work is showcased online, allowing commissioners and industry peers to browse work and contact successful artists directly. Each year’s shortlist is available to view permanently in the Awards archive.

A selection of works are included in an exhibition which opens in central London and tours for 12 months. This national tour receives approximately 50,000 visitors during its run. An accompanying publication is circulated to all major commissioners of illustration globally. The World Illustration Awards continues the AOIs tradition of having an annual survey show which has run in various guises for over 40 years. It is delivered by the AOI in partnership with the Directory of Illustration and with the support of our partners below.