1362 entries shortlisted following a phenomenal response and record-breaking submissions to the 60th annual D&AD Awards 

D&AD announced the shortlist for this year’s D&AD Awards across all categories and comes ahead of the winners being revealed in two virtual ceremonies on 25 and 26 May.   

Since 1962, D&AD’s mission has been to stimulate and celebrate creative excellence with the belief that creativity is a key driver in commercial, economic, social and cultural success. Now in its 60th year, the Awards has grown to incorporate more than 40 categories judged by a cohort of nearly 400 of the world’s leading creative minds. The Awards recognise work that has made a significant impact and will inspire seasoned talent as well as the next generation.

1362 entries have been Shortlisted for the Awards and come off the back of a robust number of entries for the 2022 Awards which surpass pre-pandemic entry records and is a testament to the value of recognising exceptional creative work. 

Additionally, this significant boost and breadth of entries from across the globe reiterate this year’s Awards manifesto, ‘Be Part of More’. Pencil winning work leaves an important and lasting legacy, informing the future of commercial creativity globally. Importantly, as an education charity, entries enable D&AD to deliver their ambitious learning programmes that bridge the gap between education and industry, and support underrepresented talent to develop their skills and their network.

Every year, the D&AD Awards categories evolve to best represent the creative and cultural landscape within which work is being produced. The revised programme addresses fundamental themes currently permeating the creative industries and ensures that the Awards remain the most relevant benchmark for creative excellence in design and advertising. 

The 2022 Awards saw the introduction of Upstream Innovation subcategories, awarding those rethinking products and services to fit within a circular system; Responsible Ideas, to champion work mindful of people and planet; dedicated subcategories for AR, VR and MR work as well as Use of XR to recognise work that is reimagining how brands interact with consumers; and subcategories under Health & Wellbeing for those innovating in the field of health, wellness, fitness and nutrition.

The top ranking countries by number of Shortlisted Entries are: United States (400), United Kingdom (273), France (113), Germany (85), Brazil (62), Australia (56), China (48), Japan (45), Canada (44) and India (37).

Most shortlisted entries are for Ogilvy UK – 25, TBWA\Paris – 22, Area 23, An IPG Health Company – 20, BETC Paris – 19 and adam&eveDDB – 18.

All 1362 shortlisted pieces are showcased on the D&AD website.

2022 submissions have seen a substantial increase in entries from nearly all regions. Middle East & India have seen the most significant change with an uplift of 71%, followed by Europe (35%), USA and Canada (15%), South East Asia (14%), UK & Ireland (12%), and Oceania (8%). In addition, there was a record number of total entries for this year’s Awards with an 18% overall increase. 

Dara Lynch, Chief Operating Officer at D&AD, commented:

“Over the last 60 years, D&AD Awards have gone on to be recognised as the ultimate creative accolade with one of the most rigorous judging processes that holds creativity to the highest possible standard. This year we have seen record entry figures that reflect the exceptional resolve of our industry and the belief that great creative work can create better outcomes for all. As a non-profit education charity, Awards entries fund our learning programmes, enabling D&AD to work towards a fairer and more sustainable future. This year, we not only celebrate the best creative work created from the past year but also the contribution that every entrant makes towards skills development and supporting underrepresented talent reflected in our manifesto, ‘Be Part of More’. We now look forward to the Awards ceremony on the 25th and 26th of May, when we will be able to reveal work which has received a coveted D&AD Pencil.” 

Donal Keenan, Awards Director at D&AD, commented:

“I can speak on behalf of the over 400 Judges involved in this year’s Awards judging process that the task of selecting entries for the shortlists was no easy feat. We were all positively surprised not only with the increased amount of creative work that has been submitted worldwide, but also with the calibre and quality of work coming through across categories. Some of the projects here on this list have really risen up to the current challenging landscape and showcased solutions that address pressing issues of our time. And, for that, I’d like to congratulate all the entrants shortlisted on the well-deserved recognition.”

As part of D&AD’s commitment to improving accessibility and diversity in the creative sector, particularly during the current economic climate, all entries were offered a 40% discount to enter their work by 12 January 2022.

Pencil winners will be announced in two separate virtual awards ceremonies on 25 and 26 May respectively.