Art of Building launches global search for the best built environment image

The world’s biggest photography prize for the built environment -  Art of Building 2017 - returns on 23rd October. 

Art of Building attracts thousands of entries every year as keen amateurs and experienced professionals battle for international recognition and a £3,500 cash prize. Shortlisted pictures are splashed across international media as the public votes for the best image. 

The global competition is free to enter and is open to anyone aged 18 or over. Any type of technology can be used, from mobile phones to sophisticated photographic equipment, but all images must be digital. 

This year’s judging panel, which includes professionals from the world of art criticism, photography and publishing, has set three categories: 

Architecture  

Focussing on the design and style of the built environment, this category celebrates everything from the micro to the macro, from the intriguing geometric shapes or details within a structure to vast urban landscapes. 

Conservation and Heritage 

Cultures around the world are often described by their built environment. This category celebrates the poetry of old buildings and showcases their relevance today. Interpretations could include renovation and restoration work or images that put old architecture into a contemporary context. 

Human interaction 

Entries in this category capture the symbiotic relationship of people with buildings, from those who construct them to others who simply visit or pass through them. The built environment influences human behaviour, and the everyday interaction of humans with manmade structures can create some startling images. 

The judging panel will be looking for creativity, composition and relevancy as well as imaginative use of light. But the styles and interpretations that will be considered are limitless. Shortlisted images from previous years have included architectural and fine art photography, social commentary and reportage. They have appeared in prestigious national and international media outlets including the BBC website, Wall Street Journal and architectural magazines. 

Speaking about the Art of Building, Saul Townsend, Head of Communications at the CIOB said: “Once again we’re putting out the call for photography enthusiasts around the world to show us what they can do.  We welcome entries from people at all stages of their photographic journey. Every year we are astounded by the diversity of images that pour in, which trigger new ways of looking at our urban landscape. 

"But Art of Building isn’t just about pictures.  It also sparks conversations about the way the built environment affects so many aspects of our lives. We look forward to renewing the debate with our entrants and the general public this year.” 

About Art of Building 

• Art of Building is an annual international photography competition run by the Chartered Institute of Building.  
• The competition is open to anyone aged 18 or over 
• Art of Building is free to enter and entries are welcome from anywhere in the world. 
• Pictures can be taken on any style of equipment, but they must be in digital format. 

Art of Building 2017 timeline 

• Open for entry - 23 October 2017 
• Closed for entry - 20 November 2017 
• Public vote begins - 11 December 2017 
• Public vote ends - 8 January 2018 
• Winner announced - 30 January 2018 

You can find out more by visiting www.artofbuilding.org