D&AD

D&AD began in 1962 as British Design & Art Direction, a community set up to improve creative communication. Its first awards followed in 1963. It now works internationally as a non-profit, running education and development programmes alongside the awards.

Early winners received pencils with precious-metal leads in an ebony case. In 1966, Lou Klein redesigned the trophy to make it larger and more durable, according to D&AD’s history.

Wood recognises work among the year’s best. Graphite marks work considered for Yellow, which recognises outstanding creative excellence. Black is reserved for groundbreaking work and may not be awarded in a given year. White recognises work driving change and replaces Yellow in the Impact and Sustained Impact categories.

Check the Pencil level, category, year and credits together. One project can win several Pencils, and several companies can share a credit. D1S1 groups category awards under the same entry. A shortlist place does not count as a Pencil win.

Start with work close to your brief and explore the studio’s portfolio. Check its credited role: a team awarded for animation may not have led the brand strategy. Profiles keep the organiser’s credits so you can see who did what.