Supporting Illustrators and the illustration industry since 1973
Today’s Featured Members
Popular Resources
What is Copyright?
Types of Animation Commission
Illustrator Template Contract
WIA2026 Call for Entries is now closed!
The World Illustration Awards, presented by the AOI in partnership with the Directory of Illustration, showcases great illustration from around the globe.
Being part of WIA offers fantastic benefits and opportunities from the call for entries stage right through to the winner announcements and beyond. This includes self-promotional tools, networking events, and features on WIA platforms.
Campaigning
The AOI believe in a thriving industry for all, where every illustrator counts. We stand up, speak out and campaign on your behalf.
News & Insights
Inside Illustration
Each season we take you on a deep dive into different aspects within the world of illustration, where you’ll find* an exclusive podcast, a Creative Practice course, an article, a featured Resource, an interview and a ‘How To’ guide…
Handmade Illustration Season
The draw of working with physical materials to create 3-dimensional content has remained strong for many illustrators. This season explores illustration and the handmade, including paper cut, ceramics, textiles and more.
Illustration for Gaming
Discover how illustrators can work in the gaming world, covering AAA and Indie games, looking at concept art, building illustrative worlds, the skills required and crafting characters and assets
*Some content for Members only
Become a Member
The AOI helps illustrators and animators build their careers with confidence. We’re here every step of the way, to help you get clients, understand contracts, and promote what you do. Find a community, grow your confidence, and make your mark.
Discounts available for students, illustrators aged 25 and under and individuals represented by member organisations.
Supporting Members
- Unlimited access to 1-1 advice on AOI Helpdesk
- Contract Review Service
- Member Resources (Pricing, Business, Copyright & More)
- Pricing Calculator and Template Contract
- 1 hour Consultation with an Accountant
- Exclusive discounts on website, insurance & more
Connecting Members
- Local Meet Up groups across the UK
- Intro Sessions to welcome new members
- Free and discounted regular event series
- Annual Mentorship Scheme
- Practical Webinars discounted for Members
- Free Creative Practice courses
Celebrating Members
- 20 Image AOI Folio
- Promotion to commissioners in the UK
- 10 image portfolio with Directory of Illustration (USA)
- Submit your work to be promoted online
- Discounted entry to the World Illustration Awards.
- Affordable portfolio consultations
Hear from our members
With members from around the globe, we provide a vibrant, supportive community no matter where you live.
Being an AOI member has helped me advance my illustration career with greater confidence. The resources and professional guidance they provide are incredibly valuable. They have also been a huge help in understanding and negotiating contracts, one of the most complex aspects of working as an illustrator.
Elizabeth Sanduvete Chaves AOI member
It was really useful to have the prompts and reminders for practical steps to keep momentum in this ever changing industry…Everyone was very generous with their time. So a big thank you again to the AOI for organising this (mid-career) day.
Lucy Truman AOI member
I recommend the AOI to other illustrators and have done so several times. It’s always reassuring to know friendly, highly knowledgeable industry professionals are in your corner for advice, support and promotion whenever needed.
Jake Hawkins AOI member
Stay up to date
Sign up to receive the latest information on our new events, initiatives, awards and much more.
Upcoming Events
An Illustration Trip for the Botanically Curious! / London meet-up
Join your fellow illustrators for a special visit to Chelsea Physic Garden, London’s oldest botanic garden, nestled in the heart of the city.
Sherlock Holmes: Portraits of Guilt / Swansea Illustrators Club
Murder Mystery | Period Costume | Life Drawing – a meet-up for illustrators.
Let’s have a Coffee Break / HIVE – Falmouth illustrators meet up
Meet local illustrators. Eat Cake. Drink Coffee. Chat & Draw.