Illustration Contests & Competitions to Enter (2022 and 2023)

I used to think illustration contests and competitions were a circle jerk thing. Why care about what older illustrators think about younger illustrators?

But as a graduating student, it’s becoming more apparent that a good portfolio isn’t the only thing we need as up-and-coming illustrators. I think that’s what separates the students who get work and those who don’t: they find opportunities to get more eyes on their art.

One of those eyes could be the future client that gets your career started. So, come join some contests with me!

If you find contests that aren’t on this list, feel free to email me at gabkdejesus@gmail.com so I can add it and share with more illustrators!

Illustrators of the Future (1st Quarter 2023) – December 31, 2022
Sci-fi/Fantasy art contest. No entry fee, with new entries accepted every quarter.

Chicago Latino Film Festival Poster Contest – January 13, 2022
Design a poster for the 39th CLFF contest.

Communication Arts 2023 Illustration Competition – January 13, 2023
Works made from Jan ’22-’23. Has fees, with a multitude of categories. Also has student category.

Animayo Poster Contest – January 20, 2023
Design the Animayo poster. Free, with 500 euro prize.

Silent Book Contest – February 5, 2023
Design a book that storytells exclusively through images. 50 euro entry fee.

D&AD New Blood Awards 2023 – March 21, 2023
Solve briefs from clients like Duolingo and Penguin Books. An interesting opportunity for your problem-solving to shine.