D&AD imposes full ban on Russia

LONDON, Today: “Dear Ed,” writes D&AD’s Juliana Freitas. “Thank you for sharing the news about D&AD’s initiative in solidarity with Ukraine.

“However, following the escalating situation in the country, D&AD feels that, in order to fully support Ukraine, they can no longer proceed with their original plan and are now imposing a full ban on Russian entries into both the professional and New Blood awards. 

“I’ve included the organisation’s updated statement below, which provides additional information on the sanctions, as well as on previously announced donation schemes to the Art Directors Club of Europe Ukraine. 

“Given how sensitive and urgent this matter is, could you please update the published story on your website?”

Here is that statement …

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce D&AD is no longer able to accept participation from Russia in the 2022 D&AD Awards and New Blood Awards.

“Given how sensitive and urgent this matter is, could you please update the published story on your website?”

“On Monday 28 February we released a statement that we would continue to allow entries from the Russian creative community in this year’s D&AD Awards and that we would in turn be making a donation of that amount to support the Ukrainian creative community.

“As the conflict has continued to escalate at an alarming rate over the past week, we have reconsidered our position and have made the decision to remove all Russian entries from both of our awards shows this year and will not be able to allow participation from Russian companies or individuals.

“We intend to keep our lines of communication open with our Russian colleagues who oppose the war on Ukraine. We will refund their entry fees, including to students and tutors of the New Blood Awards, when it is possible to do so.

“We remain categorically opposed to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the horrifying violence inflicted on the Ukrainian people.

“We will uphold our promise to make a donation to the Art Directors Club of Europe Ukraine if and when they are able to accept it, or alternatively to initiatives supporting displaced Ukrainian creatives.

“We are deeply saddened and distressed by the ongoing conflict. For those who can help, we take this opportunity to draw your attention to resources and initiatives that are already in place …

• designersunitedforukraine.org/resources
• how-to-help-ukraine-now.super.site