Working Not Working Joins the One Club In Celebrating 100 Years of the ADC Awards
Michael O’Donnell / EDITOR
Just over a year ago, we spoke to Kevin Swanepoel, CEO of the One Club for Creativity, about the 99-year history of The ADC Awards, which recognizes global excellence in the worlds of advertising and design. Well, a whole lot of history has happened in the past 365 days. We’re excited to continue our partnership with the One Club this year, and share how they’re poised to adapt on the heels of a monumental, industry-shifting year.
Hey Freelancers: Use code ADC100WNW for 20% off of the entry fee.
100 years is a major milestone for the not for profit organization, as it looks to set the pace for the celebration of craft and innovation over the next century. To that end, The One Club is already making several changes to its application process and program.
Last year, they introduced the inaugural Freelancer of the Year Award, sponsored by Working Not Working, and awarded to artist Kadir Nelson. We’re excited to bring back this award and continue this new tradition, offering freelancers a lowered entry price and the opportunity to have a bigger voice, presence, and platform in the creative industry.
Next, the Fusion Cube. “With the goal of promoting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in both agency/production company staffing and the work itself, the new Fusion Cube will identify and celebrate great work which also demonstrates how underrepresented groups and DEI issues are utilized both “behind the scenes” -- hiring diverse staff, ensuring equal opportunity, pay and treatment -- and in the creative work, as expressed through casting, language, script, and narrative.”
Another change? The addition of a new In-House discipline. “An array of creative talents from In-House agencies and brands from both large and small companies will compete with one another and have their work judged by a jury of industry peers.”
And finally, applying to the ADC Awards will now be more affordable for individual projects and passion projects in the Illustration, Fashion Design, Motion, Photography, and Typography categories. With all of the obstacles that the creative industry faced last year, individual creativity was at an all-time high. It’s a smart move by One Club to allow the kinds of projects that are typically born in people’s living rooms, kitchens, and home studios to shine. Coupled with discounted submission costs, Working Not Working will present a new category: Member’s Choice Award. The winner will be determined by members from the Working Not Working and The One Club for Creativity community, and selected from the Illustration, Photography, and Typography disciplines.
Need a reminder why you should submit, and some free advice on which projects to submit? Here’s a conversation with past winners and judges.
This year’s jury has already been selected, and they’re eagerly accepting applications until the deadline of March 12, 2021.
