The Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi is delighted to announce the 2025 recipient of the Mallinson Rendel Illustrators Award: Josh Morgan (Te Aitanga-a-Māhaki, Rongowhakaata, Te Whānau-a-Kai).
Josh is a celebrated illustrator and visual designer known for his vibrant, witty and richly layered work that brings joy to readers of all ages. As one half of the award-winning duo Cotter & Morgan, he collaborates with author Sacha Cotter to write, illustrate, and perform stories that have captured hearts across Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond.
Their bilingual picture books – including The Bomb, Dazzlehands / Ringakōreko, and The Marble Maker / Te Kaihanga Māpere – have received numerous accolades, including the Margaret Mahy Book of the Year, Storylines Notable Book Awards, and international recognition from IBBY and Sourcebooks. Their stories have also been brought to life by the NZ Symphony Orchestra and the Royal New Zealand Ballet.
An independent selection panel, made up of illustrator Sarah Wilkins, writer John Walsh, and children’s literature expert Dr Libby Limbrick, chose Josh to receive a $30,000 gift in recognition of his immense contribution to children’s literature in New Zealand. In their words: “Josh Morgan’s illustrative work is an exemplar of all of the criteria for the Mallinson Rendel Illustrators Award – both in its richness and range of depth and outstanding quality. The breadth and vigour of his work excites, inspires and engages inquisitive young minds to become lifelong readers.”
Upon learning he had been selected, Josh shared: “As a long-time sufferer of self-doubt and imposter syndrome this is immense. I am still in disbelief. I am so beyond grateful, and I feel truly, truly honoured to be a recipient of the Mallinson Rendel Illustrators Award. My hope with this award is that I can continue to play a part in the wonderful children’s literature community, and to develop, share and practice my mahi to make a positive impact on Aotearoa New Zealand and its beautiful people – especially our tamariki. Thank you again. Mauri ora.”
The Mallinson Rendel Illustrators Award is made possible thanks to the generosity of two anonymous donors who wish to see excellence in illustration for children recognised and celebrated. It is awarded every two years and alternates with the Lynley Dodd Children’s Writers Award. Neither award is open for application, with recipients selected by independent panels of experts in the field.
The award is named after Mallinson Rendel, the influential Wellington-based publishing house responsible for bringing some of New Zealand’s most iconic children’s books to life, including the Hairy Maclary series by Dame Lynley Dodd. It honours the craft of illustration and its vital role in fostering a love of reading among young people.
