A student from the Illustration programme at the Escola de la Dona has been chosen to create the official poster for the 2026 Local Communication Awards. This year, the Diputació de Barcelona has introduced an illustration competition for the first time, aiming to highlight the artistic talent of students from the institution, which was established in 1883.
The awards ceremony is scheduled for 24 November. The jury, composed of professionals from the Communication Cabinet, the Escola de la Dona, and the Area of Feminisms and Equality of the Diputació de Barcelona, awarded the first prize to Natàlia Izard Martínez. Her work was praised for its visual impact and simplicity, capturing a warm and confident moment through energetic strokes that convey calmness and strength. The jury noted her ability to communicate effectively through a single gesture, inspiring dialogue among various groups, including family, professional, academic, and friendly circles.
The second prize (accessit) went to Maria del Carmen Picó Llorca, whose original proposal illustrated a unique situation with a dynamic composition that elegantly conveyed the message of effort and achievement. The third prize (accessit) was awarded to Dagnay Tomas Martínez for his excellent finish and harmonious composition, which invites connection and care between communities.
The jury also recognised the works of finalists Laia Capellades Olivella, Clara Granados Alcaide, and Isabel Fabregat Aparicio. The competition was guided by the instructor and illustrator Ignasi Blanch, showcasing the professionalism and creativity of the submissions.
A platform for emerging talent
The competition aimed to create an image that embodies the values associated with the Local Communication Awards: informational rigour, innovation, proximity, trust, transparency, and commitment to quality communication rooted in the community. Through this initiative, the Diputació de Barcelona strengthens the links between artistic training and institutional communication, while also highlighting the legacy of the Illustration programme at the Escola de la Dona, which has been nurturing new generations of illustration professionals for nearly forty years.
The winning artwork will serve as the official image for the 2026 Local Communication Awards and will be featured across all communication and promotional materials related to the event. An exhibition showcasing the submitted works will soon be open to the public at the Rebedor space of the Francesca Bonnemaison Centre, allowing visitors to explore the creative proposals developed by the students.
The significance of the awards
Since their inception in 1981, the Local Communication Awards have reflected the evolution of local and regional media, with the posters serving as a visual legacy of this history. Previous posters have been created by renowned artists such as Mariscal, Peret, Nazario, Barjau, Closas, and Carme Solé Vendrell, each reflecting the era in which they were designed while adding artistic value to the awards.
The 39th edition of the Local Communication Awards has received 80 nominations from local and regional media across Catalonia and local entities in the province of Barcelona. The awards ceremony will take place at the Institut del Teatre in Barcelona.
The Local Communication Awards align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 10, which aims to reduce inequalities. The Diputació de Barcelona is committed to supporting local governments in accordance with these goals, which were established by the UN General Assembly on 25 September 2015 as part of the global agenda for 2030.
