The World Illustration Awards 2025 have arrived, and if you’ve ever dreamed of seeing your work recognized on a global stage, this is your moment. Organized by the Association of Illustrators (AOI) in partnership with the Directory of Illustration, this annual competition is the gold standard for illustrators worldwide. The best part? Due to overwhelming demand, the deadline has been extended to 19th February 2025—so if you’ve been procrastinating, consider this your final call.
Why Enter the World Illustration Awards 2025?
The world of illustration is bursting with talent, and getting noticed in such a crowded space isn’t easy. That’s where the World Illustration Awards come in. Whether you’re a professional illustrator, an emerging artist, or part of a creative collective, this is the opportunity to showcase your work on a global stage.
Last year’s winners landed new clients, exciting commissions, and industry recognition, and this year’s competition promises even more exposure. Winning or even getting shortlisted could be the career boost you’ve been waiting for.
The Categories That Matter
Illustration isn’t just about pretty pictures—it’s about storytelling, impact, and innovation. That’s why the World Illustration Awards cover ten industry-relevant categories, ensuring that every style, medium, and message gets its moment to shine.
From editorial illustrations to book covers, advertising campaigns, packaging, children’s publishing, and even experimental projects, this competition is as diverse as the industry itself. Whether you’re creating bold commercial artwork or deeply personal visual narratives, there’s a category for you.
A Competition Judged by Industry Titans
Judged by a panel of globally recognized experts, these awards aren’t just about aesthetics—they celebrate impact, originality, and storytelling. Having your work reviewed by some of the biggest names in the illustration world could lead to exciting new opportunities.
The jury includes industry leaders, influential art directors, and top commissioners from publishing, advertising, design, and digital media. If you make it to the shortlist, expect your work to land on the desks of people who can turn your career around.
What’s at Stake?
Besides the international recognition, new industry connections, and career-changing exposure, the World Illustration Awards come with serious prizes:
Overall Professional Winner – Cash prize of £3,000
Overall New Talent Winner – Cash prize of £1,000
20 Category Winners – Recognized for their outstanding work
4 Cross-Category Awards – Celebrating boundary-pushing illustrations
And let’s not forget the famous online catalogue showcasing the 200 shortlisted artists, along with exclusive networking events and winner announcements in September 2025.
Get Featured Before You Even Win
One of the best parts of entering? The AOI starts sharing selected submissions on their Instagram @worldillustrationawards before the shortlist is even announced. Your work could reach thousands of industry professionals, fellow artists, and potential clients—even before the competition ends.
How to Enter
Think your work has what it takes? Submitting is quick and easy:
📅 Deadline: 19th February 2025
🌐 Submit your work online at: https://worldillustrationawards.com
🖌 Who can enter? Professional and new talent illustrators, collectives, commissioners, agents, and tutors
🎨 What can you submit? Work created, commissioned, or published since January 2024
Final Call: Don’t Miss Your Chance
If you’re serious about taking your illustration career to the next level, this is the competition to enter. The World Illustration Awards 2025 could be your breakthrough moment, but only if you submit before the deadline on 19th February.
Ready to put your work in front of the biggest names in the industry? Head to https://worldillustrationawards.com and enter now.
