Turn Your Passion for Art into a Career at Shankar's Academy

Q: Is there an age limit to join the Academy?

While the minimum educational requirement is passing Class XII (10+2) or equivalent, there is no upper age limit. We welcome learners of all ages.

2-Year Diploma in Book Illustration & Graphic Design

Where Our Alumni Work

Leading publishing houses, creative agencies, and animation studios hiring our graduates

Home Shop 18

Network 18

Aaj tak

Ogilvy

Prachi Publication

Viva Education

Q2A Media

Hindustan Times

Times of India

MBD books

Redcross

India Today

Indian Express

DPS

CNN -News 18

Frank EMU Books

Orient Blackswan

Oxford

Dentsu

Crayons Network

Home Shop 18

Network 18

Aaj tak

Ogilvy

Prachi Publication

Viva Education

Q2A Media

Hindustan Times

Times of India

MBD books

Redcross

India Today

Indian Express

DPS

CNN -News 18

Frank EMU Books

Orient Blackswan

Oxford

Dentsu

Crayons Network

Why Choose Shankar's Academy?

Build your artistic skills through specialised training in illustration, visual storytelling, and publishing under the guidance of experienced professionals at Children's Book Trust.

Specialised Book Illustration Training

Industry-Relevant Digital Skills

Real Publishing Exposure

Learn from Experienced Professionals

Explore Diverse Art Forms

Legacy of Excellence

Our Visionary Founder

The legendary cartoonist who shaped children's literature and art education in India

K. Shankar Pillai 1902 - 1989

Father of Indian Political Cartooning Padma Vibhushan Order of the Smile

Continuing a Legacy of Creative Excellence

Kesav Shankar Pillai, popularly known as Shankar, was a legendary Indian political cartoonist, illustrator, and visionary educational reformer. Guided by an unwavering belief in the power of art to nurture young minds, he dedicated his life to transforming children's literature and art education in post-independence India.

In 1957, Shankar founded the Children's Book Trust (CBT) with the dream of producing beautifully illustrated, affordable books that reflect Indian culture and values. To celebrate the joy of childhood, he also established the world-famous Shankar's International Dolls Museum in 1965 and initiated global children's painting competitions.

Established in 1991 as a living homage to his dream, Shankar's Academy of Art and Book Illustrations carries forward his profound legacy. We continue to empower creative minds, turning passion into professional mastery in illustration and graphic design under his guiding spirit.

Skills You Will Learn

Nurture your raw creative talent. Our curriculum is built around these high-demand practical skills to help you build a professional portfolio:

Illustration

Cartoon & Caricature

Book & Magazine Layouting

Character Design

Storyboarding

Graphic Design

Visual Storytelling

Get Free Prospectus

Gallery

Explore classroom activities, student artworks, workshops and Academy moments.

Meet Our Faculty

An alumnus of Shankar's Academy of Art (1999-2001), has 20+ years of experience in illustration, hand sketching, painting, character design, and publication artwork. He joined the institute as a teacher in 2005 to share his industry experience with students.

Ankur Mitra

Visiting Faculty

An experienced illustrator and design mentor associated with institutions and organizations like Penguin Random House India, NBT, Delhi College of Art, NIFT & Dentsu India.

Manobhiram Chakravarti

Visiting Faculty

An accomplished artist and art educator with expertise in realistic art and oil painting. He holds a BFA from Patna University and an MFA from Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, and has extensive experience in both professional art practice and art education.

Sandeep Kumar

Visiting Faculty

He is a highly experienced designer with more than 25 years in the creative industry, including his association with Hindustan Times. His expertise spans design, illustration, and visual communication.

Avinash Shrivastava

Visiting Faculty

Illustrator and graphic designer at Children's Book Trust for 25+ years, with over 70 published books. Award-winning artist, former IBN 7 consultant illustrator, and drawing faculty at Shankar's Academy for 18+ years.

Saurabh Pandey

Visiting Faculty

Admission Process

A simple two-phase guide from your initial online enquiry to your official offline admission.

Phase 1

Online Enquiry Journey

The below steps are only for enquiry and information purposes.

Fill Online Enquiry Form

Submit your details to express interest in the programme.

Get Free Prospectus

Receive detailed course information and admission guidelines.

Counsellor Guidance

Our admission counsellor will contact you to answer your queries and guide you regarding the official admission procedure.

Phase 2

Official Admission Process (Offline)

OFFICIAL ADMISSION PROCESS - CONDUCTED AT THE ACADEMY

Purchase Admission Form

Collect the official admission application form from the Academy.

Admission Form Fee: ₹ 100 only

Submit Application & Documents

Submit the completed application form along with self-attested copies of certificates and testimonials.

Academic Qualification Review

The Academy reviews eligibility and supporting documents.

Aptitude / Entrance Test

Appear for the entrance examination conducted at the Academy.

Personal Interview

Shortlisted candidates attend an interview at the Academy.

Final Selection & Admission

Selected candidates complete admission formalities and fee payment.

What Our Students Say

"Studying at Shankar's Academy of Art & Book Illustration was a wonderful experience! The teachers are highly skilled, and the practical, creative learning environment really improved my skills and confidence. It's a great place to grow, showcase your creativity, and explore your passion for art."

Amrit Kaur Verified Alumnus

"I started my creative journey at Shankar Academy, learning illustration, digital, and manual art from industry professionals. Today, with 15+ years of experience as an Art Director, I run my own digital solutions firm and work with global clients. Proud to have built my foundation here."

Pardeep Mehra Verified Alumnus

"My experience at Shankar Academy truly helped me grow as an artist. Thanks to the supportive teachers and hands-on practical learning, I was able to build a strong portfolio and now work as a full-time children's book illustrator."

Shamli Rana Verified Alumnus

"I joined Shankar Academy to turn my passion for art into a career. Here, I learned illustration, cartooning, character design, and more in a creative and highly supportive environment. The academy greatly improved my skills and understanding of the illustration industry."

Bhaskar Pratik Verified Alumnus

"An incredible place for beginner artists! If you want to learn art and graphic design from scratch, this academy will help build a strong foundation and launch your creative career in the visual arts field."

Karan Sharma Verified Student

"As an alumnus, Shankar Academy gave me unforgettable memories, talented mentors, creative classmates, and a truly inspiring environment. From outdoor classes to practical learning, every experience helped me grow."

Ananya Roy Verified Alumnus

"I am currently a student at Shankar Academy and this is by far the best place for sketching, watercolor painting, and applied arts. The teachers guide you step-by-step with great patience."

Saroj Kumar Verified Student

"Shankar's Academy of Art completely shaped my artistic vision. The faculty's attention to detail, personalized guidance, and real-industry exposure helped me transition seamlessly from manual painting to digital illustration."

Diya Sengupta Verified Alumnus

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Shankar's Academy of Art and Book Illustrations?

Shankar's Academy of Art and Book Illustrations is a project of Children's Book Trust (CBT), New Delhi. It offers professional training in Art, Book Illustration, and Computer Graphics for aspiring artists and illustrators.

Who can apply for the course?

Anyone who has passed Class XII (10+2) or an equivalent examination from a recognized institution can apply. Students awaiting their results may also apply, subject to submission of the required certificates.

Is there an age limit to join the Academy?

While the minimum educational qualification is passing Class XII (10+2) or an equivalent examination, there is no upper age limit. We welcome learners of all ages.

What is the duration of the course?

The Diploma Course in Art, Book Illustration and Computer Graphics is a two-year programme.

What subjects are taught in the course?

The course includes Drawing, Painting, Colour Theory, Book Illustration, Computer Graphics, Sequential Art, Storyboarding, Layout Design, and Publication Design.

Which software are taught at the Academy?

Students are trained in industry-standard software such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign.

Is the course focused on book illustration?

Yes. The course places special emphasis on children's book illustration, picture books, cover design, visual storytelling, and book production techniques.

What is the medium of instruction?

The medium of instruction is English/Hindi.

What are the class timings?

Classes are held from Monday to Saturday, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

What is the annual course fee?

The annual fee for the course is ₹ 35,000.

Is there an entrance test for admission?

Yes. Admission is based on academic qualifications, an aptitude/entrance test, and an interview.

What career opportunities can students explore after completing the course?

Students can pursue careers as illustrators, book designers, graphic designers, storyboard artists, visual communicators, publishing professionals, and freelance artists.

Does the Academy provide practical industry exposure?

Yes. Students get opportunities to observe and participate in the production and printing processes at CBT's Indraprastha Press and may also work on live publication projects as part of their training.

Are guest lectures conducted during the course?

Yes. Experienced professionals from the fields of art, illustration, publishing, and design are invited regularly to interact with students and share industry insights.

Is attendance compulsory?

Yes. Students must maintain a minimum of 70% overall attendance and at least 60% attendance in each term.

Will students receive a diploma after completing the course?

Yes. Students who successfully complete the two-year programme are awarded the Diploma of Shankar's Academy of Art and Book Illustrations.

Does the Academy provide hostel accommodation?

No. Students from outside Delhi are required to arrange their own accommodation.

What materials do students need to bring?

Students are required to bring their own drawing paper, colours, and other art materials needed for practical work.

Why should I choose Shankar's Academy of Art and Book Illustrations?

The Academy offers specialized training in art and book illustration under the aegis of Children's Book Trust, one of India's most respected institutions in children's publishing. Students benefit from professional guidance, practical exposure, and a curriculum focused on creative and publishing industries.

Is this an online course?

No. The Diploma Course is conducted entirely offline at Shankar's Academy of Art and Book Illustrations, New Delhi. Students are required to attend classes at the Academy.

Can I complete the admission process online?

No. Online forms on the website are only for enquiries and prospectus requests. The official admission process, including the purchase and submission of the admission form, entrance test, and interview, is conducted offline at the Academy.

What is the cost of the admission form?

The official admission application form is available at the Academy for ₹ 100 only.

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Get In Touch

Shankar's Academy of Art and Book Illustrations
Nehru House, 4 Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg,
New Delhi - 110002

Timings: Monday - Saturday, 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Closed on: Sundays, Second Saturdays & Public Holidays

Call Us: +91 93120 02521

WhatsApp Us: +91 96676 61751

Email: info@childrenbooktrust.org

Website: www.childrensbooktrust.com