Call for Cartooning Entries

Attention all of you aspiring comic strip cartoonists and "graphic fiction authors" (aka comic book creators): there's a shin-dig going down in Kirtland, Ohio a month from now and you'll definitely want to check it out! The Lakeland Community College is hosting their 6th annual Comics Symposium on April 4 (which is free and open to the public) and are accepting entries from up-and-coming cartoonists of all ages for a special Comics Contest.

The contest age groups are Middle School, High School and Adult and there are two media categories: comic strips and "graphic fiction" (aka comic book). Organizers note that the Comics Contest is not an art contest. Judging criteria include factors beyond the artwork such as compelling stories, unique characters, innovating storytelling technique, and humor.

This year’s judges, who also will present at the symposium, include Cleveland-area resident Terri Libenson, creator of the syndicated comic strip "The Pajama Diaries," and Californian Justin Thompson, creator of the Web comic "MythTickle" and illustrator for Charles Schulz's Creative Associates Studio.

Last year's prizes totaled more than $1,000 in gift certificates, art supplies and comics treasury collections. Plans also are in the works to feature the winning entries in a gallery show.

Comic strip, graphic-fiction authors of all drawing abilities can submit up to five entries. Advance electronic or mailed entries are $12 for initial submission and $8 for each additional entry. Entries submitted at the symposium are $15 each. The deadline for early entry is March 27.