We’re inviting illustrators everywhere to take part in our latest community contest.

This month’s theme is Pattern Play. Submit your patterned vector illustrations for a chance to win $100 USD and be featured on Unsplash.

Pattern Play

We’re looking for illustrations built around patterns and repetition. From geometric shapes to organic forms, create visuals designed to repeat, tile, or form a cohesive pattern. These could work as wallpapers, backgrounds, textiles, or graphic design elements.

Illustrations by Erina Dini, Gamma Valeri, Iryna Trigubova, Silali Banerjee, Akanksha Maurya, Ayush Kumar, Anny Cecilia Walter, Libre Clip Art, and Laura Della Scala

One winning illustration will receive $100 USD (via Giftogram). We’ll also feature the winner and a selection of standout submissions in a curated Unsplash collection and across our social channels.

Want in? Here’s how:

1. Upload your vector illustrations to the new Pattern Play topic on Unsplash.
2. All entries must be new submissions, submitted after May 31, 2026, and must meet our submission guidelines.
3. Submit by August 31st, 2026.

Submissions are open globally, and there is no limit to the number of illustrations you can enter. Standard contest rules apply.

August 1st, 2026 – August 31st, 2026

Once submissions close, the Unsplash team will review entries and announce the winning illustration shortly after.

Once submissions close on August 31st, 2026, the Unsplash team will review all entries and handpick a shortlist of 10 illustrations from the Pattern Play topic.

From there, the Unsplash community will vote to choose their favorite illustration. Make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter or many social channels to get involved in selecting the winner!

We can’t wait to see what you create.