The V&A Illustration Awards, first established in 1972, stand as a beacon of excellence in the realm of artistic illustration. This prestigious biennial competition not only serves as a testament to the rich history and legacy of the craft but also to the ever-evolving nature of contemporary illustration practices. Focusing predominantly on the British illustration industry, the awards bring global attention to artworks specifically tailored for the UK market. Such a unique emphasis positions the V&A Awards as a key player in the international illustration community, championing artists both within the UK and from every corner of the world.
In its 2024 edition, the V&A Illustration Awards continues to innovate and inspire. With exciting changes introduced in the award categories, the event promises a fresh, dynamic approach to recognizing the best in the field. Entrants will be judged on works either created or published between the dates of 1 January 2022 and 31 December 2023. As a result, the awards celebrate a diverse range of illustrations, encompassing both emerging talents and established professionals, ensuring that the artistry of every generation is duly celebrated.
As one of the leading platforms for artistic recognition, the V&A Illustration Awards are more than just a competition – they’re a celebration of creativity, storytelling, and the power of visual art. By participating, artists not only gain a chance to showcase their talents but also to be a part of a lineage of illustrators who have been acknowledged by this esteemed institution. Those looking to immerse themselves in the world of top-tier illustration need look no further than the V&A Illustration Awards 2024.
There is no entry fee.
Eligibility
Open to illustrators aged 18 or above by 31 August 2023. Published categories are open to UK residents and international illustrators working for UK clients. The Emerging Illustrator category is for UK students in 2022 or 2023 and UK illustrators who haven’t been commercially published or commissioned.
Prize
Winners in each of the five categories will receive £3,000, while runners-up in these categories will receive £750. The overall winner, named the Moira Gemmill Illustrator of the Year, will get an additional £5,000. The winning artwork of this category will also become part of the V&A’s collection. Artwork from all winners and runners-up will be showcased in a display at V&A South Kensington.