One Club Opens Nominations for 2026 Creative Hall of Fame

The One Club for Creativity, the world’s leading non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating and supporting creative excellence, has officially opened global nominations for its prestigious 2026 Creative Hall of Fame. This biannual honor recognizes the lifetime achievements of visionary professionals in advertising, design, and education—those who have shaped the industry and inspired generations of creative talent.

A Legacy of Honoring Creative Legends

The Creative Hall of Fame has a storied history, dating back to the induction of advertising legend Leo Burnett in 1961. Over the decades, it has expanded to include the Copywriters Club Hall of Fame (1961–1974), the Art Directors Club Hall of Fame (1972–2012), and the Educators Hall of Fame (2012–present), all unified under the umbrella of The One Club for Creativity. Today, the Hall of Fame stands as one of the highest honors in the creative world.

Who Can Be Nominated?

Nominations are open to creative professionals and educators from around the globe, regardless of mainstream recognition. The One Club Board is actively seeking a diverse range of nominees, including those whose significant contributions may not have always received the spotlight they deserve.

Criteria for consideration include:

• A compelling case document outlining the nominee’s impact
• A current biography and headshot
• At least 10 examples of notable work
• References to accolades and industry recognition
• A minimum of four testimonial letters of support

Nominations are free for One Club members (including members of the Art Directors Club of Europe and its 25 non-profit organizations across Europe). For non-members, the nomination fee is $200, which includes a one-year One Club Professional Membership. The deadline for submissions is September 30, 2025.

How the Selection Works

Once nominations close, The One Club Board of Directors will review all qualified submissions from around the world. A shortlist of candidates will be determined, and nominators will be interviewed early next year to discuss why their nominee deserves induction. The final selection of inductees will be made by the Board, with the new Hall of Fame members announced in Spring 2026.

The celebration will culminate in a special black-tie fundraising ceremony in September 2026 in New York City—an event that not only honors creative legends but also supports The One Club’s ongoing education and professional development initiatives.

More Than an Award: Supporting the Next Generation

The Creative Hall of Fame ceremony is more than just a night of recognition. It serves as a major fundraiser for The One Club’s extensive programming, which includes:

• High school workshops introducing students to the creative industry
• College scholarships, mentoring, and recognition programs
• Outreach to bring underrepresented talent into the industry
• Portfolio reviews and career development for young creatives
• Initiatives supporting education, inclusion, diversity, and gender equality

Kevin Swanepoel, CEO of The One Club, emphasized the importance of the open nomination process:

“The Creative Hall of Fame is the ultimate recognition of visionary creative professionals and educators who transformed the industry and continue to inspire the next generation of creative talent. The open nomination process enables us to engage the broader global community and identify the best candidates possible.”

The One Club’s Global Impact

Home to renowned programs and awards like The One Show, ADC Annual Awards, Young Guns, Next Creative Leaders, and many more, The One Club for Creativity is at the heart of the global creative community. Revenue from its awards and events is reinvested into the industry through its four pillars: Education, Inclusion & Diversity, Gender Equality, and Creative Development.

The 2026 Creative Hall of Fame is a unique opportunity to honor those who have left an indelible mark on the creative world. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an educator, or a rising star, this is your chance to help recognize and celebrate the visionaries who have shaped the industry—and to support the next generation of creative leaders