The World Illustration Awards 2025 celebrate the diverse and impactful work of illustrators, showcasing projects that range from engaging packaging to thought-provoking books. Rachel Hill emphasizes the importance of illustration in shaping perceptions and understanding in various mediums. The winning works are featured in an online showcase, including artist interviews and insights into their creative processes.

Ben Duchesne is an emerging UK illustrator known for his dark, gothic pen-and-ink style inspired by comic books, horror, and Victorian etching. A graduate of Falmouth University, he emphasizes traditional techniques and narrative depth in his artwork, striving to keep human creativity at the forefront in an age dominated by artificial intelligence.

James Willan is a talented animator and motion designer known for his unique blend of analogue and digital techniques, which creates a charming yet melancholic aesthetic in his work. Drawing on influences from childhood and contemporary culture, he infuses his animations with personal emotions and interests, while experimenting across various artistic mediums. As he embraces collaboration with other artists, he looks forward to evolving his style further.

Peilin Li emphasizes the importance of embracing one's natural style in illustration, highlighting how personal experiences and small details can create emotional connections in art. Her geometric approach to figurative work, inspired by childhood picture books, has garnered her recognition and awards, allowing her to collaborate with major brands. Looking ahead, she aims to evolve her style through diverse digital media and storytelling.

Brands are increasingly turning to illustration for its distinctiveness and ability to stretch creative ideas beyond the limitations of photography. Despite some hesitations due to perceived risks and procurement challenges, the potential for illustration to stand out in a saturated market is driving its resurgence as a vital creative tool. Experts predict a future where illustration becomes more integrated with digital media and creative direction.

Little Troop has created a playful and engaging identity for the MoMA Family Festival that balances childlike wonder with artistic sophistication. Utilizing geometric shapes and a vibrant color palette, the design appeals to both children and adults, encouraging exploration and creativity. The identity's dynamic and modular elements adapt across various mediums, enhancing the festival's welcoming atmosphere.

Award-winning illustrator Marc Majewski emphasizes the importance of joy and freedom in the creative process. He believes that these elements breathe life into art, encouraging artists to embrace spontaneity and authenticity in their work.

Saintly, previously known as Fohm, collaborated with Universal Favourite to elevate the image of their touchless cleansing foam dispenser, the Divine Dispenser. The rebranding emphasizes cleanliness as a divine experience through Renaissance-inspired visuals and humor, subverting traditional expectations of bathroom products.

Otherwhere Collective collaborated with Super Genius Society to create a vibrant and innovative educational platform that challenges traditional learning methods. By emphasizing creativity, critical thinking, and accessibility, they developed a unique branding identity and product design that fosters curiosity and joy in learning.

The Royal Mail has unveiled a new set of commemorative stamps featuring characters from British and Irish folklore, illustrated by Adam Simpson. Each stamp showcases intricate details and storytelling, celebrating legendary figures like Beowulf, the Loch Ness Monster, and Blodeuwedd. Simpson's year-long artistic journey highlights the magic and pride within these ancient tales.

Tanakan Bangnoi, a Thai illustrator known as 'Think like a mustache,' transforms ordinary moments into satirical art, revealing the humor in daily life. Overcoming his initial self-doubt, he emphasizes resilience and the importance of finding joy in creativity, encouraging others to appreciate the small, whimsical details in their own lives.

Luca Bjørnsten creates vibrant, nostalgic paintings that blend elements of pop culture, childhood memories, and internet aesthetics. His work, influenced by the visual styles of the 90s and a variety of artistic heroes, transforms everyday scenes and overlooked visuals into playful and luminous art that reflects a yearning for sweetness in contemporary culture.

Saint-Urbain's rebrand of Massi’s Italian deli draws inspiration from personal childhood memories, incorporating playful illustrations and a thoughtful typographic system. The design reflects a blend of cultural heritage and community spirit, creating a unique identity that resonates with customers and enhances their dining experience.

Eduardo Bertone and Michiyo Sato blend their Argentine and Japanese heritage to create mesmerizing hand-drawn animations at Bertone Studio. Their work, characterized by vibrant colors and intricate details, reflects a dedication to traditional craftsmanship while exploring global folk art influences.

Isabel Seliger's artistic evolution reflects her mastery of atmospheric and poetic motifs, transitioning from traditional pen and ink to digital illustration using tools like Procreate and Photoshop. Her recent work for notable publications, including The New Yorker and The New York Times, showcases her unique ability to blend storytelling with visual art, while she emphasizes the importance of personal expression and reliability in the creative process.

Plantopia, the creative duo of Maryka Laudet and Quentin Camus, is transforming 2D illustrations into dynamic 3D animations using innovative techniques like wide angles and fisheye effects. Their work features playful, minimalistic environments and faceless characters, creating dream-like scenes that evoke a sense of wonder and connection to everyday moments. The duo aims to bridge the gap between illustration and animation, showcasing their unique style that captivates viewers.

The illustration industry is experiencing significant transformations due to the rise of AI, with many illustrators reporting lost work and decreased fees. While some embrace the technology for its potential, others express concerns about its legal implications and the erosion of creative rights. The Association of Illustrators is actively campaigning for clarity and protection for artists amid these changes.

Edie Medley, an illustrator and pub manager, captures the essence of conversations overheard while working in a pub through her project "I'm Not Listening." By drawing the humorous and poignant snippets of dialogue she hears, she transforms her experiences in hospitality into relatable art that reflects social life and community in 2025. Medley finds joy in observing the interactions around her, showcasing the pub as a vital space for connection and creativity.

Artists are coming together to counter the rise of AI-generated dolls by launching the #StarterPackNoAI trend, showcasing their unique hand-drawn interpretations. This movement not only emphasizes human creativity but also highlights the emotional depth and individuality that traditional artistry brings compared to AI-generated works.

Helen Oxenbury, a renowned children's book illustrator, reflects on her six-decade career and the serendipitous path that led her to the profession. Known for her beloved works like "We're Going on a Bear Hunt," she shares insights into her creative process, the importance of authenticity in children's literature, and her unique ability to resonate with both children and adults through her illustrations. The article also highlights her current exhibition showcasing her extensive body of work.

The Association of Illustrators has revealed the shortlist for the World Illustration Awards 2025, showcasing 200 exceptional projects selected from over 4,700 entries worldwide. This year's entries highlight diverse categories, including Editorial, Children's Books, and Science & Technology, with a focus on innovation and technical excellence in illustration.

Brands are increasingly leveraging illustration as a powerful storytelling tool, creating engaging experiences that resonate with audiences. Notable examples include Nissan's cinematic animations, Costa Coffee's festival activations, and Tesco's premium packaging, all highlighting the collaboration between brands and illustrators to enhance authenticity and emotional connection.

Polytechnic, a London-based design studio, collaborated with Anywhere Book Club to create engaging companion guides aimed at enhancing children's reading experiences. The guides feature a whimsical tamandua mascot illustrated by Marcus Oakley, promoting inclusivity and joy for both children and adults through playful design and relatable graphics. This branding initiative emphasizes companionship and nostalgia, making reading an enjoyable and shared activity.

Leah Han's illustrations blend Eastern and Western influences, showcasing a unique style that reflects her philosophical background and artistic evolution. Her work, which incorporates both traditional media like gouache and digital tools, captures the essence of modern femininity through playful and dynamic compositions inspired by her surroundings in Berlin.

Independent illustrator Nastia Cistakova navigates her creative career while managing ADHD, emphasizing the importance of transparency, empathy, and boundaries in collaboration. She aims to explore femme satire and sexuality through her art, aspiring to exhibit globally and create immersive installations that reflect her unique style.

Sara Maese, a young illustrator from southern Spain, creates enchanting artworks using simple forms and warm pastel colors. Her unique style is evident in various projects, including playful illustrations for wine magazines and humorous recreations of classic art, showcasing her talent in both illustration and animation.

Adobe has launched a "created without generative AI" tag for its Fresco app, allowing artists to certify their work as human-generated amidst the rise of generative AI tools. This initiative reflects Adobe's recognition of the divide in the creative community regarding the use of AI in art, providing creators a means to distinguish their authentic work.

Pat Thomas, a London artist, shifted from quick digital work to hand-drawn illustrations inspired by nostalgic family memories, using crayons to evoke warmth and intimacy. His latest series, Room Tour, explores the connections between objects and personal history, inviting viewers to experience a sense of comfort and togetherness through vibrant, surreal imagery.

Jordan Moody, a South London artist, uses vibrant colors in his drawings to transform everyday scenes of London into lively, otherworldly representations. His work focuses on capturing the joy of mundane moments, often depicting people in bright, patterned clothing and reimagining overlooked spaces with bold hues. Moody's artistic practice is deeply rooted in his surroundings, with a particular emphasis on community and the happiness of everyday life.

Hatting, a Swedish bread brand, has launched a new dynamic branding designed by IW Agency and illustrator Falko Grentrup to appeal to younger consumers. The design features playful characters and bold typography, aiming to make wholegrain bread feel relevant and exciting in a traditional market.

Gaia Alari, a Milan-based artist, creates enchanting stop motion animations and illustrations that evoke childhood joy and explore abstract movements. Her work, inspired by mythology and folk tales, captures universal emotions and encourages viewers to engage with art on a deeper, more immersive level. Alari's unique style blends figurative and abstract elements, reflecting the fluidity of feelings that words often fail to express.

Alyson Petruncio's illustrations evoke the existential dread of childhood through vibrant colored pencils, capturing suburban unease and imaginative escapism. Her work reflects a blend of psychological chaos and nostalgic horror, reminiscent of classic children's horror literature while exploring themes of discomfort and conformity. Petruncio aims to transform unsettling memories into cathartic visual experiences.

Illustrators are currently facing significant challenges due to the rise of AI technologies that dilute their unique styles and contribute to market oversaturation. The competitive landscape, combined with broader economic downturns, is forcing many artists to diversify their income and rethink their career strategies. As the industry evolves, the future remains uncertain whether these difficulties signify a temporary blip or a permanent shift.

Walk a Thought has created a whimsical identity for Bouquet, a brand of infused flavoured syrups, reflecting the playful and nostalgic essence of its products. Utilizing a mix of vibrant colors, unique typography, and charming illustrations, the branding ensures the syrups stand out in busy cafes while maintaining an artistic and personal touch. The design also extends to packaging and a user-friendly website, enhancing the overall experience of the brand.

GeneralPublic Studio has crafted a unique identity for Apoticari, drawing from the rich heritage of French apothecaries. The design features a blend of traditional elements and contemporary aesthetics, emphasizing typographic pairing, natural color palettes, and custom plant illustrations to convey warmth and authenticity.