Photography contest to showcase the best of the world’s built environment

The finest pictures showcasing the world’s built environment will be pitted against one another once again in the Chartered Institute of Building’s (CIOB) coveted annual photography contest. 

CIOB’s Art of Building competition, which is free to enter, opens for entries on 9 October and will see thousands of amateur and professional snappers submit stunning entries in the hope of winning one of two £1,500 cash prizes. 

A panel of judges will pick out the best of the bunch when the contest closes on 12 November. Members of the public will be able to select the best image for the Public Choice award while the judges will also select someone to be crowned as the Judges’ Choice winner. 

Saul Townsend, Head of Communications at CIOB, said: “The art of building competition provides an excellent opportunity for both aspiring and professional artists to capture and showcase the true beauty of our urban landscape. It also serves the purpose of providing a platform for artists to share their unique perspectives with the rest of the world.” 

Submissions are often used in pop-up style art galleries which can be seen on construction site fencing around the world – meaning they are seen by millions of passers-by worldwide. 

The winner of last year’s Public Choice award - 'White Constellation'

Saul added: “Buildings are more than just functional structures; they are works of art that shape our cities and communities. Through their photographs, artists can highlight the beauty and significance of these structures, inspiring others to appreciate and preserve them for future generations. 

“As judges we want to be surprised to be shown something new and we encourage those who enter to really express themselves through their photography. From the smallest detail to the largest structures on earth the built world is a fascinating place crafted by human ingenuity and this competition is a great place to tell those stories. We are buzzing with excitement to see what new views people will show us this year.” 

The winner of last year’s Public Choice award was Italian professional photographer, Francesca Pompei, for her ‘White Constellation’ – depicting the UAE Pavilion at last year’s Dubai Expo while The Netherlands’ Pati John scooped the Judge’s Choice prize with ‘My own little cosmos within reach’ - a stunning image of the night sky as viewed from a shopping mall. 

The Art of Building competition is open to anyone over 18 years of age and the deadline for entry is 12 November 2023. The two winning entries will be announced on 12 January 2024. For more information visit: www.ciob.me/artofbuilding