Whatcomics

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, doodles, and digital art. Whatever spins your creative wheel, we would love to see it!

Past Issues of Whatcomics

Accepted artists receive a copy of the book and their work will be featured in a video slideshow to celebrate the publication.

The Rules Are Simple

> Open to Whatcom County teens in grades 6-12

> Entries accepted between September 1 and October 31

> Original artwork only (no characters from movies, games, or shows.)

> 8.5 x 11 unlined paper only

> No light pencil

> Black & white or color

> Team entries welcomed

> All levels of artwork considered

> Up to 3 entries per artist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I submit my artwork?

There are 3 ways to submit your artwork:

Online at wcls.org
Mail your unfolded artwork to:
WCLS – Whatcomics
5205 Northwest Dr
Bellingham, WA 98225
Call us at 360-305-3611 to set up a time to drop off your work at a local library.

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.

How do I get my copy of Whatcomics 2020?

It will depend! If our library branches are not open we will mail copies directly to you. We expect to have the book printed by mid-January, so after the new year, check your email inbox, our website, or call us for more information.

How are we going to celebrate the book’s publication?

To celebrate the book’s launch, we will be creating a video slideshow that will feature all of the art and some footage of artists talking about their inspiration and process. If you would like to be one of the featured artists, check back on this page in December to get more details.

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.

I still have questions!

Call our main phone line (360-605-6000) and the person who answers will help you. If you’d rather, you can call your library branch directly.

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.

Books from WCLS

Rise Up: The art of protest — RISE UP!
The Art of Protest

signs of resistance: a visual history of protest in america

A People's Art History of the United States — A People’s Art History of the United States

Art in Action: Make a Statement, Change Your World

You are mighty: a guide to changing the world — You Are Mighty: A Guide to Changing the World

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!

Open as JPG
Download as PDF

Open as JPG
Download as PDF

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.