World Illustration Awards 2023 winners include Beyapanicha and Harriet Noble

The Association of Illustrators (AOI) has announced the winners of this year’s World Illustration Awards. Two projects – the first by Tel Aviv-based graphic designer and illustrator Stav Assis and the second by Israel-based illustrators Orit Bergman and Anat Warshavsky – have been awarded as overall winners. The Awards received 5,000 entries from 84 countries this year, which were narrowed down to 200 shortlisted projects by an independent jury.

Stav Assis’ project, which was submitted in the Design Product & Packaging Category, was matchbox-sized. Stav used the shape of a dog’s body to create a logo for a matchbox brand, developing a host of changing patterns for each package. The judges commended the illustrator for the skill shown against a small canvas. “I think this series works very well,” says judge and Happy People studio director Pomme Chan. “I love the fun feeling that brings a smile to me.”

While Stav was playing with spatial constrictions, Orit and Anat created a range of children’s illustrations that were blown up into a 3D site-specific exhibition. Eclectic character design was key to the work. “The moment I saw this project I wanted to jump into the screen to be able to experience that installation in person,” says Book Covers judge Jefferson Quintana. “The elements created are very rich as individuals but also work perfectly together creating a harmonious playful universe. A perfect way to celebrate the power of imagination.”

Spatial exploration continued in the Professional Publishing category. Beyapanicha was awarded as category winner for an original comic strip for Kiblind Magazine, in which stories are confined to one room and a square format. Harriet Noble rose to the top in the advertising category, for an “informative but friendly” work raising awareness around the topic of gynaecological cancer.

“Our 2023 winners have truly mastered their crafts, skilfully utilising illustration to explore narratives, evoke emotions, and express complex ideas,” says AOI CEO Rachel Hill. “We are proud to recognise and reward these winners for their important contributions to the illustration industry this year, made from all corners of the globe.”

You can browse the entire list of shortlisted projects and winners here.