The Cube that represents recognition for creative work stretches, fractures, multiplies and changes shape in the new ADC Annual Awards campaign. London agency DixonBaxi took the competition’s familiar symbol as the starting point for In Search of What’s Next, the campaign launching entries for its 106th edition.
The visual system unfolds through clashing colours, shifting proportions and typography that moves from precise forms to freer, more unpredictable shapes. This approach connects the call for entries with the creative process, in which ideas are questioned and changed before taking their final form. London-based Zelig Sound was responsible for the sound design.
“The real work happens long before anyone applauds, in the ideas that don’t quite work, the unexpected breakthroughs, and the refusal to settle for what already exists,” said Tassia Swulinska, Creative Director at DixonBaxi. Explaining the campaign’s approach, she added that the team wanted to make the ADC Cube, carrying 106 years of creative excellence, as restless and alive as the people who keep searching for what comes next.
The search for work the jury has not seen before is also central to the invitation from Brian Collins, President of the Art Directors Club and Co-founder of COLLINS. Collins called on creators to enter their best, most unusual and boldest work, noting that entry revenue also funds education, mentorship and portfolio development programmes for young talent.
The ADC Annual Awards is the longest continuously running competition recognising craft and innovation in creative work. It covers design, advertising, film and video, photography, illustration, architecture, gaming, creator content and other disciplines. In the new edition, Typography and Type Design/Lettering become two separate disciplines, assessed by the same jury. Packaging Design gains new categories for New Product Launch, Packaging Effectiveness and Unboxing Experience.
An additional category has also been announced as part of the partnership between The One Club for Creativity and the platform CapCut, with details to be released at a later date. The awards continue to include the Paul Manship Medal, open to entries for designers whose contribution to the industry over the past five to ten years has been marked by innovation, driving change and lasting impact.
The regular entry deadline is January 22, 2027, the extended deadline is February 12, and the final deadline is March 5. Fees increase after each deadline, while lower rates are available to smaller agencies and studios, freelancers, creators and independent practitioners, depending on the discipline and entrant’s status.
Jury Presidents will be announced in November, with the full jury revealed in January. Judging will take place in March and April 2027, followed by the announcement of finalists in April. The awards ceremony is scheduled for May 19 in New York, during Creative Week 2027.
Entries are open on the competition’s official website.
