The V&A Illustration Awards 2026 are now open and we are looking forward to seeing this year’s entries! The awards are free to enter here and you can find information about the competition categories in our FAQs. We are expecting A LOT of entries and the following hints and tips will help yours stand out from the crowd.
Brief Descriptions:
As part of your entry, you will be asked for a brief description of each project that you submit. Our judges will be reading hundreds of these, so brief means exactly that! Descriptions are read alongside the images and should give context and insight into your process. Do not just describe the pictures.
Descriptions should:
- Describe the product or story in as few words as possible
- Explain the brief, audience and purpose
- *Most important* describe how you approached the idea
- Briefly describe your artwork (materials and technique)
- Stick to key points and stay within advised word limits.
- If you are submitting an animation (see below) please let us know the overall length of the film
Images:
For each entry you will add images. We accept all standard digital file types. Put your most striking image first. This is what the judges will see before clicking into your full entry and should grab their attention. You can play with the order of images using the arrows at the top of the file tiles.
Animations:
Because of the volume of entries, our judges can only view up to one minute (or less) of video at the short-listing stage. You can either upload this directly into the entry platform or give us a link to your hosting site. If your link is to a film that is longer than this, then please let us know which minute you want us to watch! Otherwise, our judges will watch for one minute from the beginning.
You can also add up to five still images. That is your chance to show us anything that you think is missing from the shorter reel.
Remember – Image 1 is seen first – make it your best.
DO:
- DO Describe the project
- DO Describe your approach
- DO Be brief. Stick to key points.
- DO Put your best image first
DON’T:
- DON’T Just describe your images
- DON’T Overdo it. Stay within word limits.
- DON’T Use the same image more than once
You can save, review and edit entries before submitting, so take some time to present your work at its best. You have until 12.00 GMT, 5 January 2026. Good luck and we look forward to seeing your entries!
Sign-up to our emails to hear when the shortlist is announced by Spring 2026, or keep an eye out on the website. The winners will be contacted by June 2026
The Awards are generously supported by the Linder Foundation and the Moira Gemmell Memorial fund.
Hi, I’m Sheena Myth, an illustrator for 5 years, the head of Sheena Art Studio, and the founder of Sheena Illustration Challenge. I like cheerful, lively, and bright images, and hope to convey continuous happiness through my artwork.