Whatcomics

Submission Form | Rules & Information | Need Some Inspiration?

Whatcomics 2022 Cover — **VIEW ONLINE | PLACE A HOLD**

Whatcomics 2023 will be open for submissions September 1 through October 31, 2023.

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

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

All levels of artwork considered

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
Drop off your artwork and submission form at your public 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.

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.

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?

Whatcomics archive — View previous issues of Whatcomics

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.

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.