Meet the Panel of Judges for the 2025 Booooooom Illustration Awards
**Meet the Judges for the 2025 Booooooom Illustration Awards**
Returning for 2025, the Booooooom Illustration Awards once again celebrate outstanding and up-and-coming illustrators. This year, a remarkable jury—each with their own perspective and expertise—will review work from artists around the world, seeking the most inventive and creative submissions. Here’s an introduction to the accomplished individuals selecting this year’s winners.
**1. Liana Finck – Illustrator and Cartoonist from New York**
Liana Finck, widely recognized for her acclaimed contributions to The New Yorker and graphic novels such as “Passing for Human,” joins our judging team. Her remarkable talent for capturing complex feelings in minimal yet emotive drawings makes her an essential member of the panel. Liana’s narrative insight will be invaluable for evaluating works that use illustration to tell engaging stories.
**2. Yuko Shimizu – Celebrated Illustrator and Instructor**
Based in Manhattan, Yuko Shimizu merges traditional Japanese influences with modern illustration techniques. Her vibrant work can be seen in TIME, The New York Times, and on covers around the globe. Yuko’s presence will ensure the awards spotlight a range of cultural influences and creative directions.
**3. Jon Burgerman – Noted British Artist and Designer**
Jon Burgerman, known for his whimsical, colorful artworks that dance between playful innocence and sharp wit, brings a fresh viewpoint to the jury. With exhibitions in museums and galleries across the planet, Jon’s imaginative style motivates others to explore new territory—a quality he’s certain to inspire during the judging.
**4. Victo Ngai – Innovative Illustrator and Visual Storyteller**
Hong Kong-born Victo Ngai, whose artistic credits include The New Yorker, The Society of Illustrators, and major ad campaigns, brings a narrative-rich perspective to the panel. Her detailed visuals and ability to construct extraordinary worlds will help select pieces that are intricate and mesmerizing.
**5. Lisa Hanawalt – Esteemed Artist and Animation Creator**
Lisa Hanawalt, acclaimed for her creative role on the hit animated series “BoJack Horseman,” offers her distinct blend of humor and emotional complexity. Her voice in the world of illustration and animation ensures recognition for submissions that offer something truly original or redefine narrative art.
**6. Booooooom Founder – Jeff Hamada**
At the helm of the team is Jeff Hamada, founder of the influential Booooooom platform established in 2008. His ongoing commitment to building an inclusive artist community underpins these awards. Jeff’s advocacy for diverse talent is integral to the competition’s global outlook.
Bringing together a respect for classical artistry and an enthusiasm for digital innovation, this panel is set to guide the 2025 Booooooom Illustration Awards towards celebrating bold originality and imagination. Submissions from artists aspiring to make a lasting impression on the illustration scene are warmly welcomed.