Gruffalo illustrator to judge new Big Issue kids cover competition

Monday 09 February – Budding young artists are being offered the chance to see their work on the cover of an upcoming edition of the Big Issue.

Under 13s can submit designs to a new competition judged by illustrator Axel Scheffler – best-known for his iconic artwork in picture books by Julia Donaldson such as The Gruffalo, Stick Man and Zog. Axel’s latest book is Love, a book about togetherness published in support of Three Peas refugee charity.

Big Issue is inviting submissions on the theme of ‘Peace’, inspired by Oxford Children’s Word of the Year 2025. The winning design is set to appear on the cover of an Easter special of the street magazine.

The cover competition winner will also receive an exclusive original illustration by Axel Scheffler.

Axel Scheffler said: “Creativity is essential for the upbringing of children. I know that schools have less time to teach art and music. Having art or music in our lives – consuming or creating it – makes human beings happier and more fulfilled.

“My books in support of Three Peas charity – Kind, Welcome and, now, Love – are all about kindness, togetherness and trying to make the world a better place so the Big Issue cover competition on the theme of ‘Peace’ is perfect for me.  

“It’s always nice to see children’s drawings. I’ve illustrated a Big Issue cover myself (with Zog and the Flying Doctors in 2020) so I’m excited to be a judge and I’m looking forward to seeing the entries!”

Russell Blackman, Managing Director of Big Issue, said: “From dancing Christmas trees to the marvellous menagerie on last year’s Earth Day issue, our kids cover competitions have become a joyful staple of the Big Issue calendar.

“We’re honoured that this year’s judge is the legendary Axel Scheffler, the illustrator who inspired a generation of children with his art. So be creative, be colourful, and you could see your design on the cover of the Big Issue this Easter.”

Anyone under the age of 13 can enter via post or email. Entries close on 11 March. Visit bigissue.com for more information.