Michal Bonikowski

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Celebrating a Century of Creativity

“The ADC Annual Awards is the oldest continuously running industry award show in the world. Now in its incredible 102nd year, these awards celebrate the very best in advertising, digital media, graphic and publication design, packaging and product design, motion, experiential and spatial design, photography, illustration and fashion design all with a focus on artistry and craftsmanship.”


In the ever-evolving sphere of creativity, there are few constants. Yet, the Art Directors Club (ADC) Annual Awards has remained a beacon of excellence for a full century. In 2021, I found myself deeply privileged to be part of this prestigious tradition, serving as a juror during this monumental centennial event.

The 100th ADC Awards was not just another year in its illustrious history, but a landmark event unfolding amidst global upheaval caused by an ongoing pandemic. As the sole juror representing Poland, I was astounded by the resilience and adaptability of the global design community.

Design, at its heart, is about problem-solving and innovation. During the Jury sessions on 2021 ADC Awards, I witnessed this principle in action as designers worldwide tackled the unprecedented challenges presented by the global pandemic. It was an extraordinary display of rapid design innovation, as projects crafted in response to the pandemic underscored the critical role of design in real-world problem-solving.

The variety and quality of entries were a testament to our collective creative spirit and our ability to adapt even in the most challenging circumstances. It reinforced my belief in the transformative power of design and its ability to shape our response to the world around us.

Serving as a juror in this historic event was more than an honor; it was an affirmation of my commitment to fostering creativity, nurturing innovation, and driving design excellence. Despite the challenges of our times, the 100th ADC Awards demonstrated the indomitable spirit of the design community and the power of our creative contributions.

As we continue to navigate these challenging times, I am increasingly excited about the future of design. Design thinking will play a crucial role in our collective journey towards recovery and growth. And as we celebrate the first 100 years of the ADC Awards and look forward to the next century, we remain committed to driving change, embracing new challenges, and continuing the legacy of creative excellence. Here's to a future filled with inspiration, innovation, and endless creativity!

www.oneclub.org/awards/adcawards/-archive/judges/2021/all