The Selkie Comic Awards aim to promote Scotland’s thriving independent and small-press comics scene. Inspired by the SICBA Comic Book Awards, which ran from 2011-2019, the award aims to recognise talent from across Scotland, including those who have limited access to in-person comic events.
Selkies are fabled creatures from Scots mythology, who can shapeshift between seal and human forms - a perfect symbol for independent comic creators, who often need to take on multiple roles to support their creative work.
In June 2020, the UK Comics Creators research report found that only 13% of comic creators received no income other than what they earned through comics production.
As the costs of producing, selling and promoting comics rises across the board, it’s more important than ever that there are ways for comic creators to receive recognition for their achievements that don't come with an entry fee attached. To participate in the Selkies, you don’t need a printed book, or a submission fee - all you need is to have completed a single-issue comic or graphic novel while living in Scotland in the past year, and to be able to share it with us using our online form.
Our 2024 shortlist is now available. Be sure to check it out to experience the very best in Scottish comics!