The Illustraciencia International Illustration Award is a global competition dedicated to celebrating excellence in scientific illustration and naturalist illustration. Organized by the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), the National Museum of Natural Sciences (MNCN-CSIC), and the Catalan Association of Science Communication (ACCC), the award promotes the vital role of visual art in communicating science. By bringing together artists, researchers, and science communicators, Illustraciencia highlights how accurate, well-crafted illustrations can make complex scientific knowledge accessible to wider audiences.
The competition invites illustrators from around the world to submit original works that visually interpret scientific concepts, organisms, ecosystems, or natural phenomena. Participants may enter in either the scientific illustration category, which focuses on accurate visual representation of scientific subjects, or the naturalist illustration category, which emphasizes observation of nature and biodiversity. Techniques may range from traditional media such as watercolor, ink, and graphite to digital illustration, provided the work maintains strong scientific accuracy and educational value.
Through this international scientific illustration contest, Illustraciencia aims to raise awareness of illustration as a powerful tool for science communication, education, and public engagement. Selected works are showcased in exhibitions and featured in an official catalogue, helping illustrators gain visibility within the global science art community. By encouraging collaboration between art and science, the award supports emerging and established illustrators while promoting visual storytelling that deepens public understanding of science and nature.
There is no entry fee.
Eligibility
Open worldwide to individuals or teams aged 18 or older, who may submit one original illustration related to science or nature (free technique) created within the eligible period and entered in either the scientific or naturalist category.
Prize
The competition awards a cash prize of €1,000 to the winner in each category (scientific illustration and naturalist illustration). A professional jury selects the winning works and may grant several special mentions, while around 40 selected illustrations are included in an exhibition and a digital catalogue associated with the award. In addition, one illustration is chosen through a public vote and receives a public-choice mention and diploma.