Dual Victory for Anglia Ruskin Illustrators in Contest
Revamped Review:
Marguerite Davidson, Cali-girl-turned-illustration-whiz, emerges victorious in the coveted Macmillan Prize for Illustration, taking home a cool thousand quid and a dose of prestige! This powerhouse talent, who studied at San Diego State University and now recently graced Anglia Ruskin University's Children's Book Illustration MA course, outshone nearly 400 competitors with her vibrant, interactive masterpiece, Do You Want To Play?
Marguerite's triumphant work charmed the judges' socks off with its brimming colors, fluid illustration style, and a concept that tickles the reader's DIY spirit! This book is an engaging, interactive adventure that begs the reader to become a part of the story, making it a non-stop party for all ages.
Her story, with its endearing animal characters and humorous undertones, stole the limelight, landing itself a prized spot amid Macmillan's illustrious collection. Marguerite shares, "I craft my tales with warmth, wit, and furry pals. My preferred weapon of choice? Screen printing! I adore employing a limited palette, layering colors, textures, and shapes to create a mesmerizing finish."
The panel was bowled over by this energetic, interwoven narrative. They shared, "Marguerite's winning piece grabbed our attention from the get-go with its buzzing colors and stunning design. The interactive aspect of the book made it irresistibly entertaining." The panel also appreciated the blend of a hilarious story and the thoughtful interplay with the physical book, ensuring joy for kids and grown-ups alike.
The Macmillan Prize, now 40 strong, attracted many impressive artists this year. The competition keeps unearthing fresh voices, showcasing the magic of Cambridge School of Art's Children's Book Illustration MA course. The celebration of talented illustrators, like a glee-fest, is always one for the books! Marguerite's fellow graduate, Carol Law, also snagged a runner-up prize in the Macmillan Prize, making ARU the champions of the day!
Will Knight, another ARU MA grad, stole the show at the Batsford Prize 2025, securing the Children's Illustration category with his first-ever story, The House Dragon. This heartwarming tale told of a child left behind when his family moves, with a protective dragon coming to his aid. Will's unique blend of media, from 3D models to sketches and final artworks, impressed the judges with its polished illustrations, inventive perspectives, and a dash of humor. Batsford touts Will's entry as "visually stunning, accomplished, and funny."
Let the ARU illustration team take you from great to greatness! Savor some of Marguerite's work on the MA Degree Show website, just a click away: https://www.cambridgemashow.com/marguerite-davidson. What a time to be an ARU illustration student, amirite?!
[1] [https://www.cambridgeshirelive.co.uk/whats-on/family-kids/childrens-book-illustrator-marguerite-davidson-2460357][2] [https://www.anglia.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/childrens-book-illustration-ma][3] [https://www.panmacmillan.com/news/2022/may/marguerite-davidson-wins-2025-macmillan-prize]
- Marguerite Davidson, a postgraduate from Anglia Ruskin University's Children's Book Illustration MA course, was recently recognized, winning the Macmillan Prize for Illustration with her book, "Do You Want To Play?"
- This victory comes after Marguerite's studies at San Diego State University, where she initially honed her artistic skills.
- The vibrant, interactive illustrations and engaging narrative of "Do You Want To Play?" captured the essence of education and self-development, making it a standout among the 400 entries.
- The book, filled with laughter and DIY spirit, offers an exciting opportunity for both children and adults to learn about sustainable living and home-and-garden, as they become part of the story.
- Online education platforms, including learning resources on the ARU MA Degree Show website, can be helpful for students who are inspired by Marguerite's triumph and are eager to explore the arts, particularly in the field of law or other disciplines.
- The Macmillan Prize also recognized Carol Law, another ARU graduate, in the runner-up category, strengthening the university's position as a nurturing ground for promising illustrators.
- Meanwhile, Will Knight, another ARU graduate, secured the Batsford Prize 2025 in the Children's Illustration category with his first book, "The House Dragon," demonstrating the breadth of talents emerging from the university's Children's Book Illustration MA course.
