30/09/2025
Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing is excited to announce Melbourne-based artist Wenwen Chen as the winner of the 2025 Little Hare Illustration Prize! Chen’s clever interpretation of the text provided, alongside her gorgeous character work, thrilled the judging panel: ‘There was so much talent in this year’s shortlist, but Wenwen’s expressive character work, stunning colour palette, and the thoughtful details she added into her world building won us all over.’
This year’s Little Hare Illustration Prize text was Dinosaur Stomp, by Sandhya Parappukkaran, author of the 2024 NSW Premier’s Literary Award–winning Stay for Dinner. Of Chen’s win, Parappukkaran said: ‘Wenwen's submission gushes with bright colours, movement and loads of dinosaur love. I am so thrilled to welcome Wenwen onboard to make Dinosaur Stomp together and bring this story to life.’
As winner, Chen receives a publishing contract with comprehensive art direction and editorial support, to take the picture book through to publication. On this achievement, Chen said: ‘I feel so honoured to be the winner of the Little Hare Illustration Prize. Huge thanks to Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing for supporting emerging illustrators and to Sandhya for creating such a beautiful story. I’m so excited to get started and bring Dhanya’s world to life!’
Thank you to all the creators who took the time to submit their work. The Little Hare Illustration Prize will return in 2027, so keep an eye out!
