Penguin launches student design awards

Penguin has launched its own student design awards to stimulate interest in graphic design within the publishing sector.

Aimed at final-year students on a degree or HND Art & Design course, the scheme sets several jacket design briefs, for four Penguin titles – Blink by Malcolm Gladwell, Tess of the D’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy, Mr Clarinet by Nick Stone, and Vince and Joy by Lisa Jewell. Entries can include collaborations with illustrators, but only one entrant can be awarded.

The judging panel, led by Penguin art directors Jim Stoddart and John Hamilton, will comprise names like Deyan Sudjic, director of London’s Design Museum, Jamie Hewlett, the designer and animator behind Gorillaz, and Penguin author Ali Smith.

Judging panel chairman and Penguin managing director Helen Fraser says, ‘We are very excited to see what Penguin’s design heritage will inspire from the freshest and brightest young design students. I’m looking forward to seeing the result.’

The closing date for entries is 20 April, and the winners will be announced at the end of May.