This is about the Call for Entries for the biennial V&A Illustration Awards - in 2026. Below are the basic facts of what you need to know - plus the link to where you can read more. Deadline for entry is 12.00 GMT on 5 January 2026.
The V&A Illustration Awards is a free, biennial competition celebrating excellence in illustration and contemporary practice, and judged by a panel of prominent illustrators and industry experts.
The Awards aim to reflect the contemporary UK illustration scene, welcoming published work by UK residents or those resident anywhere in the world working for UK clients.Illustration: Moira Gemmill Illustrator of the Year 2024 Benjamin Phillips,
Alte Zachen / Old Things by Ziggy Hanaor (© Cicada Books, B. Phillips 2022)
The Prizes
The prize money has increased for 2026,- each of the five category winners will receive £3,500
- five runners-up will get £1000.
- The overall winner, the Moira Gemmill Illustrator of the Year, receives
- an additional £5,500 (making a total of £9,000) and
- their work will become part of the V&A’s collections.
Winners and runners-up for each category will be announced in summer 2026. Their work will be displayed in a dedicated, curated display within the V&A.
The Awards are generously supported by the
Linder Foundation
and the Moira Gemmell Memorial fund.
What you need to know
What are the categories for entries?
In 2026, there are five categories. There are no "designated briefs" for entries in any category.
The five categories are:
