Whatcomics Teen Art Anthology. Publish your art. Deadline, October 31st.

Submission Form | Rules & Information | Need Some Inspiration? | @wcls_teens Instagram Logo

Whatcomics 2024 opens for submissions September 1, 2024 – October 31, 2024

Whatcomics 2023 artists who were unable to attend the Celebration can pick up their copy at any public library. Artwork will be on display in the Lynden Library meeting room and throughout the building through the end of February.  

See below to learn how to submit your artwork for Whatcomics 2024. Deadline is Oct. 31.

Whatcomics Teen Art Show. January 13 to February 29, Lynden Library
Artwork above: Halaena, Autumn Lindner and Fall, Gwen Graham
WHATCOMICS TEEN ART SHOW
JANUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 28, LYNDEN LIBRARY
Whatcomics 2023 cover image
WHATCOMICS 2023
VIEW ONLINE | PLACE A HOLD

Whatcomics is a teen art book published annually by Teen Services of the Whatcom County Library System. Area teens are invited to submit their original, 2-D artwork in a variety of styles including pen and ink, colored pencil, watercolor, comics, and digital art. 

Whatever spins your creative wheel, we would love to see it.


Rules and Information


The Rules Are Simple

  • Open to Whatcom County teens in grades 6-12
  • Entries accepted between September 1 and October 31
  • Up to 3 entries per artist
  • All levels of artwork considered 

Original artwork only

  • use unlined paper
  • no light pencil
  • do not fold your artwork

Types of art accepted:

  • drawings or paintings
  • comic strips
  • digital illustrations
  • collage
  • other 2D artwork

Not accepted:

  • fan art
  • characters from movies, games, anime, books or other artists
  • AI generated art

All levels of artwork considered

All artists will be notified in early December about if their art was accepted for publication. Accepted artists receive a copy of Whatcomics and will have their art framed and on display at the Lynden Library Celebration and Art Show. A selection of this year’s art also will be displayed on the Whatcomics Bus.  

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I submit my artwork?
There are 3 ways to submit your artwork:
  1. Online at wcls.org
  2. Mail your unfolded artwork to:
    WCLS – Whatcomics
    5205 Northwest Dr
    Bellingham, WA 98225
  3. Drop off your artwork and submission form at your public library.
Can I submit art that I drew using an online tutorial?
Unfortunately, no. While you drew it, the actual composition is something someone else imagined and created. We can only accept artwork that is entirely created by you. We are interested in what you create, not something copied from another artist.
Can I submit art using a stock background?
Unfortunately, no. The background must be made by you to be accepted for Whatcomics.
I’ve submitted my artwork, now what?
You will hear from us whether your artwork was accepted or not through an email or a phone message, usually by early December. If you haven’t heard back by then, please call us to find out if your artwork will be published or not.
If my artwork is accepted, what’s next?
Along with bragging rights of being a published artist, all Whatcomics artists receive a complimentary copy of Whatcomics to keep.
What is the Whatcomics Celebration and Art Show?
Artists are invited along with their family and friends to attend a celebration in January at the Lynden Library. All the art will be framed and on display in the meeting room and throughout the building. This is your first opportunity to pick up your copy of Whatcomics and say hello to fellow artists.

The Art Show will run from mid-January through February 28 at the Lynden Library. Your art will be on display throughout the Lynden Library and everyone is welcome to come see it.
How do I get my copy of Whatcomics?
You can get your copy at the Whatcomics Celebration. If you can’t make the Celebration, you can pick up your copy the following week at any library.
Can I get a second copy of the book?
If there are extra copies after all artists, libraries and schools have received their copy, we can fill requests for those Whatcomics participants who would like a second copy on a case by case basis and as supply allows. Please email your request to: tamar.clarke@wcls.org There is no charge for the additional book.
Can I get my artwork back?
Because the artwork is displayed in a number of our libraries and may be damaged in the framing or transferring process, we are not able to guarantee the return of your artwork.
What is the Whatcomics Bus?
WCLS and WTA have partnered to add a selection of each year’s Whatcomics art to the ceiling on the inside and the panels on the outside of a WTA bus. We’ll have the newest Whatcomics bus open to tour at the January celebration event. Look for this “traveling art exhibit” on bus routes throughout the county year-round. Youth ride free on all WTA buses – so hop aboard any time and enjoy the art!
I still have questions!
Call our main phone line (360-305-3600) and the person who answers will help you. If you’d rather, you can call your library branch directly.
Watch how one artist gets started on her drawing for Whatcomics. Enjoy!

Need Some Inspiration?

Art and Activism

Are you an “ARTIVIST”?  Artists have had a long history of social and environmental activism, often taking the lead in movements around the world that inspire protest, change, and hope.  If you have an issue that you are passionate about, create a poster or an art piece that shares your vision for a better world.

Whatcomics art image
Darla Taylor

Whatcomics art image
Giordanne Panis
Whatcomics art image
Gabriel Gilbert
Whatcomics art image
Hannah Carlson and Isabella Wells

Whatcomics art image
Jillian Templeton
Whatcomics art image
Cleo Patterson

Comics

We love to get comics! Please limit the size of your comic to one 8.5 x 11 page, and if there is writing, make sure it is large enough to be read easily. Check out below for more information on ideas and templates to help inspire you.

We have created some templates that you can download and print to create your own comic strip or page. You are also welcome to create your own.  The only rule is that the final piece can’t be larger than one 8.5 x 11 inch sheet of paper.

Download a template and get started!

Comics 1 Panel Circle
One panel circle

Open as JPG
Download as PDF

Comics Circle and Squares
Circle and rectangles

Open as JPG
Download as PDF

Check out these comics and graphic novels and guides for how to draw comics at your library!



Have questions? Email us.