Portfolio Showcase: Summer Virtual Conference 2025

Are you considering submitting your artwork in the Portfolio Showcase? 

Are you a bit nervous? Don't know if you're ready?

Well, let this be your sign to take the leap and submit. 

The annual Summer Portfolio is truly a "career-launching opportunity!" Take it from me. The first time I submitted to the Portfolio Showcase, I was unsure, and definitely scared. As artists, we can be sensitive about our work but I knew I'd never grow if I didn't put myself out there. 

"This juried showcase is a terrific way to get your illustrations in front of top publishing professionals."

We hear the word "professional" and it can deter us but we, too, are professionals. We work every day to perfect our style, our art and our voice which is what a professional does.

So I submitted and I found my first professional work through my online SCBWI portfolio! But more importantly, I was able to see my work next to other artists who were just as passionate as I and I was able to learn from my peers. And during the In-Person Conference Portfolio Showcase, we were able to socialize, where I've made some long-lasting relationships. 

Formatted as a three-image portfolio, you can link your full SCBWI Membership Profile Illustrator Gallery so don't forget to give a little focus and TLC to your Member Profile page. 

"Portfolios are judged as a whole, not on any individual image. The judges are looking for:

- Children’s book publishing appropriateness.

- Consistency of a strong illustrative “voice” throughout.

- Fresh and unique styles."

Click here for full details on How to Enter and the guidelines!

BUT WAIT!

Did you know that the winners will be a part of the Bologna Children's Book Fair? 

"Images from the Gold, Silver, and Bronze winners’ portfolios will be displayed in a special showcase in the SCBWI booth at the 2026 Bologna Children’s Book Fair along with their name, website, and country of origin. There will be more than 30,000 people and 1500 exhibitors from 100 countries attend this renowned book fair."

Now, that's what I call pretty awesome!

Don't hesitate! Images must be uploaded by July 20, 2025 at 11:59pm PST. 

Winners will be announced live on Zoom at the Summer Conference Wrap-Up and Awards on Saturday, August 2, 2025. Hope to see your work among the submissions!

Good Luck, friends! And remember, you and your art are worth the chance!