Judges “spoilt for choice” in PANZ Book Design Awards

Once again New Zealand’s book designers shine in the build-up to the most prestigious industry book design awards in New Zealand. “There are some stunning books vying for first place,” comments convening judge Odessa Owens.

The PANZ Book Design Awards 2016 shortlist showcases the diversity and range that our talented book designers aspire to and achieve. There have been strong entries this year from both a larger range of publishers and from newcomer boutique publishers, and the shortlist definitely reflects this.

The shortlist has 30 finalists over seven categories: best illustrated book; best non-illustrated book; best children’s book; best educational book; best cookbook; best typography; and best cover. The sought-after award for best book is chosen from the category winners.

The judges for the 2016 awards are three accomplished design professionals: convener Odessa Owens, Programme Leader for the Whitireia Publishing Programme; Arch MacDonnell, Founder and Creative Director of Inhouse Design; and Rowan Sommerset, Illustrator and Book Designer for Dreamboat Books.

“It’s been a huge honour to be part of the judging panel this year and such a pleasure to reward the very best-looking books of 2015,” says Owens. “We were spoilt for choice in many categories”. Owens notes that the Illustrated and Best Cover categories were particularly outstanding, attracting many strong contenders.

The PANZ Book Design Awards will take place at a ceremony held on Thursday 28 July at 6pm at the Maritime Room, Auckland Viaduct. The Allen & Unwin Young Designer of the Year will also be announced at the awards ceremony.

 
All shortlisted book images are on view at http://www.bookdesignawards.co.nz/2016-shortlist/