The volcanic ash spewing out of Iceland and shutting down airports across Europe has had a knock-on effect on this year’s D&AD judging.
Numerous judges have been unable to reach London to participate in the judging, which begins today. In a statement issued this morning, D&AD said that it had a two-pronged contingency plan. Wherever possible, it will set up remote voting to enable judges unable to travel to London to cast their votes. It also has a bank of reserve judges based in the UK that will be able to replace those unable to attend or participate remotely.
Tim O’Kennedy, CEO of D&AD, said: “D&AD judging takes place from 19-22 April in London and we have been monitoring the situation closely since flight restrictions first came into place last Thursday. Judging will go ahead as planned and we have instigated a two-pronged contingency plan.
“All affected jurors have been contacted to discuss options and to establish a plan of action. We will retain the integrity of D&AD judging and will not proceed with anything that we feel undermines this. We will continue to keep judges and entrants informed of developments over the coming days.”
A volcanic ash cloud from Iceland is currently spread across the UK and much of the rest of Europe, bringing travel chaos.
Ironic considering that the eruption is actually an ambient stunt created by an ad agency to promote the launch of Bjork’s new album – Volcano due out next month. Judges will probably see it at D&AD next year.