Illustration Studies Hub - Symposium 2026

Technological innovation is dramatically reconfiguring illustration practice and its industries, challenging established working relationships, patterns and methods. These technologies are offering us new ways to ideate, experiment with and generate visual material, but they are also increasingly able to replace our labour altogether.

This scenario presents a compelling opportunity for us to redefine and reassert the roles and responsibilities of human illustrators. How might we articulate what we are able to offer a project, a client, or society more generally? How might we advocate for ourselves as visual communicators? Might this scenario be an opportunity for us to broaden our remit? What could this entail?

The event will be an opportunity to meet and network with illustration researchers across UAL. We welcome current PhD students, graduates, practitioners, academics, and those who are PhD curious. It will take place at Wilson Road, the dedicated space for illustration at Camberwell. Refreshments will be provided.