Hello! Welcome again to another Weekly Roundup. In the Weekly Roundup, I provide links and summarized information about the crowdfunded projects, creator opportunities, and resources that have caught my eye over the week. I hope you enjoy!
As a note: I am not sponsored by any company, group, or individual listed below or elsewhere on this site unless otherwise listed.
Want to jump to a specific section? Use the links below:
Helping Others || Awards || Recent Webcomic Debuts || Crowdfunded Projects || Animation || Comics, Illustration, and More || Conventions and Events || Mentorships || Residencies, Retreats, and Workshops || Scholarships, Sponsorships, Fellowships, and Grants || Teaching || Typesetting || Voice Acting || Writing and Editing || Youth || Resources || Deals || Giveaways
Helping Others
Are you a US resident wondering what to do about recent executive orders, gag orders, cabinet confirmations, and the future of your country? Sign up with 5calls.org to find out who to call about specific, pressing issues and what to say. Countable is also an informative resource (though I’ve personally been having issues with the app).
Here’s a free, open source Resistance Manual.
Looking for inspiration or encouragement? Check out the #smallacts hashtag on twitter. Thank you Celeste Ng for encouraging such an awesome movement!
Here is a list of some charities and nonprofits to donate to. Thanks Christina!
Here is a list of inclusive volunteer positions organized by state.
If you are a trans person in need of legal assistance, check translawhelp.org for pro bono services in your state.
If you need to talk to someone or otherwise vent, please utilize this list of help hotlines.
Take care and take your time. Your work is more important than ever. Thank you for sharing your originality and openness with the world. You bring light to the days of others, and it is so, so appreciated.
Awards
Winners were announced for StArt Faire’s Excellence in Webcomics Awards. See the winners here and listen to the related podcast here!
Qualified voters can select up to 4 people for the Will Eisner Hall of Fame Awards. Here are the bios and some works of the nominated artists. Voting is open until March 10.
Entries from publishers and creators are now being accepted for the 2017 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards. Submit by March 24 to be considered.
The Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award is also accepting nominations until April 7. Vote for your favorite comic book retailer to thank them for contributing to the awesome world of comics.
The Barbara Laronde Award is accepting nominations of self-identified indigenous female emerging artists living in Northern Ontario until May 1.
SPX is accepting submissions of comics for their Ignatz Awards. Submissions of comics are not required for potential nomination, however. Any books mailed in must be received by June 7.
Recent Webcomic Debuts
Teach Me to Kill follows William, a school teacher is accused and sentenced to death for the murder of his students. While still in shock and not knowing what actually happened in that classroom, an eccentric couple bursts into his cell and tells him, “You’re needed somewhere else.” He finds himself in a hidden world where a school for serial killers waits for him to make a decision: accept the position as teacher of a new class or to go back to his cell and face his sentence. Follow the creator Leah on Twitter.
Warm Blood is an ongoing high school murder mystery following our hero Penny as she navigates her first year at Greenwood High. Warm Blood is written by Josh Tierney and each scene is illustrated by a different artist.
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Did you catch last week’s announcement of recent webcomic debuts? Check it out!
Crowdfunded Projects
Love Debut! Graphic Novel is running a Kickstarter to fund the production of its softcover print edition graphic novel. Love Debut! is a story about two young musicians who find love, trust, and empowerment through each other and their music. Tier options include PDF and print editions of the book, a bookmark, a print set, stickers, an acrylic charm, a character cameo, and a thank you sketch. The Kickstarter ends tonight!
My Dad Thinks I’m A Boy?! A Trans-Positive Children’s Book is running a Kickstarter to fund the production of 3000 hardcover copies of the book. The story aims to empower trans kids and deliver a body-positive message. This will be Sophie’s third children’s book, and the third centered on characters who are trans. Tier options include PDF and hard cover copies of the book, Sophie’s previous books and comics, a set of postcards, translation services, and a book reading. The Kickstarter ends February 26.
BLACK COMIX RETURNS – African American Comic Art and Culture is running a Kickstarter to fund the printing and production of BLACK COMIX RETURNS, a reprisal of 2010’s previously successful and now out-of-print BLACK COMIX. BLACK COMIX RETURNS intends to involve at least 50 black artists and writers and 144 pages of content, though stretch goals will push the book to 100 contributors with 200 total pages. Tier options include a digital copy of BLACK COMIX, digital and physical copies of BLACK COMIX RETURNS, postcards, prints, and a t-shirt. The Kickstarter ends March 5.
Magical Boy Basil #1 is running a Kickstarter to fund the printing of its first issue. Magical Boy Basil is an LGBT webcomic about undercover teenage magicians who fight monsters. The print edition of issue #1 will feature 24 full-color comic pages and 8 pages of bonus content. Tier options include PDF and print editions of the comic, a fold-out poster, prints, and original artwork. The Kickstarter ends on March 6.
Tokyo Demons: The Complete Series is running a Kickstarter to fund the physical production of its third and final volume. Tokyo Demons, a character-driven urban fantasy, tells the story of a group of teenagers and the adults who help them navigate through an international underground power struggle. Inspired by Japanese light novels, each chapter features an original illustration by Devil’s Candy artist Rem. Tier options include digital desktop wallpapers, postcards, a dakimakura, and digital, physical, or audio copies of the novels. The Kickstarter ends on March 7.
Spidersilk Comic Volume 2 is running a Kickstarter to fund the printing of the comic’s second volume. Spidersilk tells a story of loss, isolation, friendship, and found family through Prentice, and ex-soldier who attempts to find his home in a guild of thieves. Tier options include a digital wallpaper, digital and physical copies of the volume, character charms, mini prints, sticker packs, gift bags, a fur collar, and commissions. The Kickstarter ends on March 9.
Tabula Idem: A Queer Tarot Comic Anthology is running a Kickstarter to fund the production of its 240+ page book of comics and tarot cards. The anthology features black and white comics featuring diverse characters and inclusive stories in a wide variety of genres. Tier options include a digital wallpaper pack, digital and physical copies of the book, a tarot deck, a bookmark, a bookplate, postcards, tea, and commissions. The Kickstarter ends on March 9.
Zambicandy is running a Kickstarter to fund the production of 4 enamel pins featuring a mermaid, a sea unicorn, a star unicorn, and a centaur. The Kickstarter ends March 10.
Golden Medal – a Yuri on Ice!! Fanbook is running a Kickstarter to fund the production of a Yuri on Ice fanbook. The book will have 136 pages of full color illustrations and exclusive comics created by more than 55 Latinx artists. Tier options include digital and physical copies of the fanbook, stickers, prints, and acrylic charms. The Kickstarter ends on March 15.
Femme Magnifique is holding a Kickstarter to fund the printing, production, and fulfillment of its anthology. Femme Magnifique will include over 50 artists and writers whose comics will tell the stories of 30 women trailblazers of the past and present day. Tier options include digital and print versions of the book, postcards, pins, patches, stickers, prints, commissions, a cameo in the anthology, a meet and greet with curators and creators of the Kickstarter, and the opportunity to book Kristy Miller as a guest speaker. The Kickstarter ends March 16.
Namesake: Volume 3 is running a Kickstarter to pay for the print edition of Namesake third volume, which will include Intermission 2, Chapters 11-15, and various extras. Namesake tells the story of two sisters—one who can travel to other words, and one who can write them into reality—and their journeys through the universes of fairy tales, stories, and legends. Tier options include digital, softcover, and hardcover versions of the book, previous Namesake volumes, original comic pages, a bonus comic, signed and illustrated bookplates, 2 digital wallpapers, stickers, prints, and plushes. The Kickstarter ends on March 16.
Seven Strengths: A Coloring Book for Resiliency is running a Kickstarter to fund the production of its coloring book. The book will include at least 28 line drawings to color, 16 activities, and survival strategies that are seen in the natural world. Tier options include digital and print copies of the book, prints, postcards, and issues 1 and 2 of Bioluminescent Lisp and Merethe’s Heart. The Kickstarter ends on March 17.
BlerDCon: Diverse Anime, Cosplay, Comics, Gaming & Geek Con is running a Kickstarter to help provide additional content, guests, panelists, and performers to their 24-hour convention. The convention itself is already funded thanks to a partnership with EMConsultants, LLC., but additional funding via the Kickstarter will help BlerDCon further its efforts to include veteran, disabled, LGBTQ+, and international fans, as well as advocacy and support groups. The Kickstarter ends on March 19.
Husband and Husband Volume 1 is running a Kickstarter to fund the production of their first 100-page volume. The comics cover the fictional and biographical daily lives of two husbands. Tier options include digital and physical copies of Husband and Husband, original art, and a cameo in the comic. The Kickstarter ends March 24.
Dates! An Anthology of Queer Historical Fiction (Volume 2) is running a Kickstarter to fund the production of its second book, along with the payment of the artists involved. The second volume of Dates! will include over 218 pages of black and white comics, 13 full color illustrations, and 2 short prose stories featuring queer historical fiction with happy endings. Tier options include the digital or physical copy of the book, a digital copy of the first volume, bonus comics and illustrations, a digital desktop, an enamel pin, historical fiction written on the topic of your choice, art commissions, and original comic pages. The Kickstarter ends on March 25.
The Queers and Comics Conference, in partnership with Prism Comics, is hosting a Travel Fund through Indiegogo’s Generosity platform. Donate funds to provide queer creators with travel funds to attend the conference on April 14 and 15. Donation tiers include benefits, such as digital and physical copies of books, postcards, t-shirts, and commissions from queer creators.
Creative Opportunities
General
Do you play games regularly? Fill out this survey on Representations of Diversity in Games to inform future game developers.
Check the Lemma Soft Forums for paid work related to visual novel and game development, including project management, illustration, voice acting work, animation, music composition, writing, coding, and more.
SXSW Create has space available for companies with a focus on 3D printing, drones, biohacking, hardware, science, technology, bio-art, hacker/maker spaces, robots, STEAM, or artists. Underwritten space is available for educators, amateur innovators/makers, early stage startup companies, or other members of the maker and creative community.
Thank you, Tanya D., for this awesome list of POC, LGBTQIA+, nonbinary, trans, woman-identifying, or otherwise marginalized creators! If you’re a marginalized creator, sign yourself up here!
Animation
DoubleStallion is accepting applications for 2D VFX animators and programmers.
Here is a survey for Women Professionals in Animation. If you work in animation and identify as a woman, please submit your anonymous information to this survey to inform and assist current and future animators.
Selina Wagner is looking for freelance Flash animators for a project.
You can find a directory of currently open animation jobs at animatedjobs.com! Companies like DHX Media, Disney, Nickelodeon, and others have a number of open full-time, part-time, freelance, and remote positions available, including those in social media, editing, and teaching.
Comics, Illustration, and More
Threadless is accepting submissions to their hand drawn design challenge until March 2. You can also submit your designs to the ludicrous challenge until March 10. You can submit designs outside of contests anytime here.
Shousetsu Bang*Bang’s Special Issue #12 illustrations are due by March 18. (These are unpaid opportunities for participation in NSFW 18+ fiction e-magazines)
Today is the last day for artists and writers to submit their applications to the Haikyuu!! Second Years fan zine. Contributors will be paid after printing and fulfillment costs have been covered.
Let’s Relate! Zine is accepting submissions until February 25. Submissions of poetry, comics, illustrations, and more are acceptable, but must be from a person with a nonbinary gender identity. All proceeds will be donated to the ACLU.
Applications for the 2017 Adobe Creative Residency program are open until February 26. Six residents from the US, Germany, and Canada will be selected. Check here for more information and here to start your application.
Another Closet, a collection of poetry, fiction, comics, and essays by queer + trans folks and/or survivors living with addiction, is accepting submissions until February 28. Anonymity can be requested.
The Bad Girls Bad Girls digital zine is accepting submissions until February 28. All proceeds from digital sales will go to Planned Parenthood. WIPs must be completed and submitted by February 28, with final art due March 18.
Dirty Diamonds is accepting submissions from women to their 8th collection on Sex: Thoughts Behind the Act. Applications are due by February 28. Production, promotion, distribution, and compensation to be paid for with a Kickstarter campaign in the spring.
Hellcat Press is accepting applications for their upcoming Tales from the Public Domain anthology until February 28. Creative teams will be paid $20 for up to ten pages of black and white work and will retain copyright of their work.
The Lehzin Comic World Comic Contest is accepting submissions until February 28. A grand prize winner will receive $100,000, a second place winner will receive $20,000, and 10 third place winners will receive $3000. All winners will receive Clip Studio Paint software. Comics of all genres and ratings are accepted. Read the submission guidelines for more information.
Lucy Knisley is looking for artists to contribute an illustration of a historical activist of women’s rights for a collaborative print which will be sold to benefit Planned Parenthood. Illustrations must be completed by February 28.
StArtFaire‘s submissions deadline for Issue 12 is February 28! Submit comics, advertising, or writing for free.
Style!!! on Ice, a Yuri on Ice x fashion fanbook, is accepting applications until February 28. Artists will split profits after the cost of printing and fulfillment.
The DC Comics Artists Workshop is accepting applications until March 1. Selected participants will attend a 2 week course and master classes designed to perfect their portfolios for consideration to DC Comics.
Issue 5 of The Strumpet is accepting submissions on the theme of “Origin Story” until March 1. First-time contributors may submit up to 3 pages of comics; past contributors, up to 6. The Strumpet will pay $10/page for a 6-month license fee. First-time contributors will receive two copies of the issue; prior contributors will receive three.
Udon is accepting fanart submissions for Street Fighter vs. Darkstalkers to be published in a future comic series. No rewards are shown outside of publication. Submit by March 1.
Light Grey Art Lab is accepting applications for their Color Anthropology exhibition until March 4.
A Fullmetal Alchemist Charity Zine is accepting applications through March 5. All proceeds will be donated to the ACLU, and contributors will receive a free copy of the zine.
Next Level: A (NSFW) Yuri on Ice fan zine is accepting applications through March 5. Contributors will receive a copy of the zine as well as split profits after printing and fulfillment costs are determined.
Passion Fruit Anthology, a queer erotica anthology to be released by Beyond Press, is accepting submissions until March 7. Selected contributors will be paid $50/page for up to 18 pages of black and white comics. More information can be found here.
The Blue Exorcist Zine Project is accepting applications through March 12.
Built on Strange Ground is accepting pitches consisting of creepy, eerie, and strange nonfiction personal accounts. Selected contributors will be paid $50/page. Submit by March 15 for consideration.
The IUD Zine is accepting submissions until March 15. Any person of any gender with any kind of experience with IUDs of any variety are welcome to submit. The zine is not for profit and will be available for free online.
The Voltron Legendary Defender Risque Zine is accepting applications though March 15. Contributors will receive a copy of the final zine, and possibly split profits after printing and fulfillment costs are determined.
Cicada is seeking submissions of poetry, fiction, essays, and comics for their issue on Hauntings until March 27. They also have a call for submissions for an issue on aliens due by April 27 and an issue on puppets and dolls due by May 27.
Empire of Lies: An Anti-Trump Art Zine is accepting submissions until March 31. The zine will be sold digitally, with proceeds donated to IPPF (the International Planned Parenthood Federation).
The Silent Manga Audition announced its seventh run of its worldwide dialogue-free comic competition. The theme is “unforgettable taste.” Entries are due by March 31.
The Trans Lifeline Benefit Anthology is accepting submissions of writing and illustration. Stories must be fanwork for a work in the public domain and have a hopeful or happy ending. 100% of proceeds will be donated to Trans Lifeline. Submissions are due by March 31.
Yaoi Con is hosting a Mascot Contest. Illustrate two new mascots for the chance to win a full weekend pass and an artist alley table. Your art will also be featured throughout the con. Contest ends March 31.
Graphix, an imprint of Scholastic that previously published Raina Telgemeier’s Smile, Jeff Smith’s Bone, and Kazu Kibuishi’s Amulet, is accepting submissions for graphic novelists creating works for children and teens. Visit their site for more information. The deadline to apply is April 1.
A Voltron Tarot Cards project is seeking submissions until April 17. Participants will be paid via Paypal depending on the amount raised after production is complete.
Resist! Volume 2 is accepting submissions for their not-for-profit zine until May, though artists are encouraged to submit early and often. The first volume was distributed for free at inauguration protests, but the second volume will be available for a low cost at bookstores and comic stores nationwide, with plans to make copies available to schools and libraries. Women, minorities, and international artists are encouraged to submit.
For the Scribes is accepting submissions for their first issue of the Fresh Ink anthology until May 1. The theme is “Also Liberation.” Poetry, fiction, other prose, and comic submissions are welcome. No information provided on crediting, rights, or pay.
Submissions for 2017’s If Anthology are open. The theme is “crime” and the soft deadline is May 1. Contributors will be compensated with 1 book per page.
The Yaoi Army is accepting submissions for a BL anthology with the theme “Life and Death” until May 3. Illustrators will receive $250 and comic artists will be paid $20/page if the Kickstarter funds.
Lilies Anthology is accepting submissions for their third issue until May 25. Check out the recently released issue 2 or issue 1.
Rebel Mountain Press is accepting submissions of nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and artwork from LGBTQ2 people living in Canada. Submissions are due by June 30.
Taking the Lane #15: True Trans Bike Rebel is accepting submissions of short fiction (500-2500 words), illustrations, and photography until July 1. Payment to be split among contributors after the zine is crowdfunded.
Argot Magazine is seeking written and illustrated submissions about queer and marginalized experiences. Click here for more on their mission as well as their pay rates.
Double Fine is accepting applications for environment artists, technical artists, art directors, and more.
The Fair Page Rates annual survey is live! If you’ve worked professionally as a comic artist this year, fill out the survey to help inform yourself and other artists in the future.
Jerry’s Art-A-Rama hosts a number of art contests, some ongoing and some requiring specific materials. Here’s one for artwork created using Strathmore materials (ends March 5), one for ArtBites canvas panels (ongoing), a self portrait contest (ends April 30), and ongoing contests/giveaways for how much you’ve saved at Jerry’s Art-A-Rama, sharing a photo of a button given with orders over $25, and explaining why you use Jerry’s Art-A-Rama.
Lore Lush Publishing is accepting applications for cover artists.
Makers in Malaysia is accepting registration applications for their upcoming English language zine celebrating the work of Malaysian creators.
The Trans Embodiment Zine is seeking submissions from artists and writers on a rolling basis for their monthly zine. No information is available about payment or publishing rights.
Tu Books, an imprint of Lee and Low Books, is actively seeking graphic novels for young readers starring Native and Muslim characters. Here are their submission guidelines for illustrators.
Check out Arts for LA or College Art Opportunities for more exhibition, residency, and grant opportunities. See Find Anthologies for a list of anthologies with open submissions and to submit anthologies of your own. Check Comic Ops to see opportunities specifically for comic creators.
Conventions and Events
Con or Bust has free tickets available for people of color for a number of upcoming conventions, including StokerCon, MidSouthCon, and Norwescon. They are also accepting requests for assistance through February 25.
The SPX Table Lottery is open through February 24.
San Japan’s artist alley table signup will open on February 26 at 5:30PM CST. Tables are first come, first served.
SPE@K!, the Small Press Expo at Kankakee, has table registration open until February 28.
Ann Arbor Comic Arts Festival (A2CAF) is accepting exhibitor applications until March 1.
Clexacon is accepting artist alley applications for their convention in early March.
The Scholarship from Hell is accepting applications through March 15. This scholarship will provide domestic coach airfare to and from Long Beach, CA, a 4-night stay on the Queen Mary April 27-30, free registration to StokerCon 2017, and workshop attendance.
The Hand Eye Society is holding an open call for videogames to showcase on-site at the Toronto Comics Arts Festival (May 13th and 14th) as part of this year’s Comics x Games 6. Submit by March 21 to be considered. Table space is limited, though, so aim to submit as soon as possible.
GeekGirlCon is accepting applications for exhibitor space at their October 2017 convention.
STAPLE! The Independent Media Expo is accepting applications for exhibitor spaces at their September convention in Texas.
Women in Comics Con 2017 is accepting vendor applications for their March 25 convention in New York.
ICE CREAM 2017, The Iowa City Expo for Comics and Real Eclectic Alternative Media, is currently accepting applications for table space for the event on April 8.
Tables are still available for FLAMECon, held in New York in August.
Follow Con Calendar or Conosaurus on Twitter, or download the ConCon app to stay updated on convention schedules!
Mentorships
The Representation Matters Mentorship Program is accepting applications on a rolling basis from self-identified people of color interested in the publishing industry. Mentorships will last 6 months, with a minimum of one session every two months.
Residencies, Retreats, and Workshops
Applications for the 2017 Adobe Creative Residency program are open until February 26. Six residents from the US, Germany, and Canada will be selected. Check here for more information and here to start your application.
2 spots have opened for the Writing Cross Culturally Workshop taking place March 9-13 in Tennessee. Apply here to be considered.
Check out Arts for LA or College Art Opportunities for exhibition, residency, and grant opportunities.
Scholarships, Sponsorships, Fellowships, and Grants
Here’s a list of 102 college and graduate scholarships available for women of color!
The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators in West Washington is offering two scholarships to cover the costs of attendance of its April 8 conference. Applicants must be 18 or older and meet the diversity criteria. Applications are due February 28.
The Emerging Writer Fellowship is accepting applications until March 1. One applicant will attend a combination of seminars and multiweek classes as well as the 2017 and 2018 Muse and the Marketplace conference.
The Prism Comics Queer Press Grant is accepting applications until March 1. Grants will be awarded to a successful applicant in order to assist in the publication and promotion of LGBTQIA+ comics. The recipient will be announced at a panel at this year’s WonderCon in Anaheim, California.
The Tulsa Artist Fellowship is accepting applications until March 1. Recipients will receive a $20,000 stipend, work space, and housing. Fellowships are merit-based, not project grants, with a one-year term for visual artists and a two-year term for writers.
The First Annual Eliza So Finish-Your-Book Fellowship is accepting applications until March 15. The fellowship includes room and board at Las Vegas’ Writer’s Block for the month of June 2017, along with a $500 food stipend and $400 toward airfare. There is no fee to apply. Applicants must either be an immigrant, a first-generation American, a resident of Montana, or a parent with at least one child under the age of 5.
The Scholarship from Hell is accepting applications through March 15. This scholarship will provide domestic coach airfare to and from Long Beach, CA, a 4-night stay on the Queen Mary April 27-30, free registration to StokerCon 2017, and workshop attendance.
GLAADGrants has applications open to film producers until March 24. Awards of either $2500 or $5000, social media support, and mentorships will be provided to recipients of the grant.
Check out Arts for LA or College Art Opportunities for exhibition, residency, and grant opportunities.
Teaching
Columbus College of Art and Design is hiring a Comics Illustration Assistant Professor, among other faculty and staff positions.
Sign up to teach at Skillshare to earn royalties based on the premium member students in your class. See here for additional information.
Typesetting
Digital Manga has positions open for freelance manga letterers.
Voice Acting
Check the Casting Call Club and Voice Acting Alliance for more voice acting and audio opportunities.
Writing and Editing
Let’s Relate! Zine is accepting submissions until February 25. Submissions of poetry, comics, illustrations, and more are acceptable, but must be from a person with a nonbinary gender identity, whatever that means for you.
Another Closet, a collection of poetry, fiction, comics, and essays by queer + trans folks and/or survivors living with addiction, is accepting submissions until February 28. Anonymity can be requested.
On She Goes is looking for pitches from women of color for their Spring 2017 issue. The theme is “We Belong Here” and should involve the experience of traveling as a woman of color. Apply by February 28 for consideration for this paid opportunity.
Sapphire Books has an open call for submissions for stories from 1500-5000 words involving lesbians and long distance relationships. Contributors will be paid $50 and will receive a copy of the book. Submit by February 28 for consideration.
Stripes Publishing is accepting submissions from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds for an anthology of fiction and poetry for young adults titled A Change Is Gonna Come. Submissions are due by February 28.
Impossible Archetype is accepting international submissions of LGBTQIA+ poetry in English for their inaugural issue. Submissions close March 1. See guidelines here.
Written submissions for Shousetsu Bang*Bang’s Special Issue #12 are due March 14. This is an unpaid opportunity for participation in NSFW 18+ fiction e-magazine.
Arsenika is open for fiction, poetry, and artwork submissions through March 15. Payment for accepted submissions is $0.01 per word, with a minimum of $5. Read here for more information.
Best Gay Stories 2017 and Wilde Life 2017 are seeking submissions of fiction featuring men and transmen who identify as gay. Stories must have been previously published in 2016. Please submit stories that are 12,000 words or less. Submit by March 15 for consideration.
Built on Strange Ground is accepting pitches consisting of creepy, eerie, and strange nonfiction personal accounts. Submit by March 15 or consideration.
WisCon 41 is seeking submissions for its Souvenir Book. Submit essays of 500 to 1000 words describing topics both historic and current that are relevant to the WisCon community. Writers will be paid $20 upon publication. Submit by March 15.
Best Lesbian Erotica of the Year Volume 2 is accepting submissions until March 20.
Cicada is seeking submissions of poetry, fiction, essays, and comics for their issue on Hauntings until March 27. They also have a call for submissions for an issues on aliens due by April 27 and an issue on puppets and dolls due by May 27.
From March 1 to March 31, the DC Comic Writers Workshop will accept applications. Those accepted will receive access to a 13-week video workshop to help develop a portfolio with writing for DC Comics.
Metaphysical Circus Press is accepting applications from Native American or otherwise indigenous writers for their New Voices contest through March 31, 2017. Here’s a guide on their desired style and content.
NineStar Press is seeking submissions for a lesbian paranormal – werewolves, vampires, mythical creatures – anthology. Submissions are due by March 31. NineStar Press also has ongoing submissions open for LGBTQA+ romance fiction, literary novels, and erotica shorts.
Queer Pack is seeking submissions of positive queer stories between 5000 and 6000 words for their Queerly Loving Anthology. Stories by cis men are not accepted. Submit by March 31 for consideration.
The Trans Lifeline Benefit Anthology is accepting submissions of writing and illustration. Stories must be fanwork for a work in the public domain and have a hopeful or happy ending. 100% of proceeds will be donated to Trans Lifeline. Submissions are due by March 31.
Arcturus is accepting entries for 3 writing contests until April 1. There is a $5 reading fee with all works, and a chance at a $100 prize for those selected.
The Enough/Enough Anthology is accepting submissions from trans and non-binary survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assault through April 30. Resources for survivors are also linked here.
FIYAH, a magazine of black speculative fiction, is accepting submissions for their Sundown Towns issue. Submissions close April 30.
For the Scribes is accepting submissions for their first issue of the Fresh Ink anthology until May 1. The theme is “Also Liberation.” Poetry, fiction, other prose, and comic submissions are welcome. No information provided on crediting, rights, or pay.
Nepantla: An Anthology for Queer Poets of Color is seeking submissions from queer poets of color until June 1.
Rebel Mountain Press is accepting submissions of nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and artwork from LGBTQ2 people living in Canada. Submissions are due by June 30.
Taking the Lane #15: True Trans Bike Rebel is accepting submissions of short fiction (500-2500 words), illustrations, and photography until July 1. Payment to be split among contributors after the zine is crowdfunded.
Anime Feminist is looking for contributors in the upcoming year. Read here for more information. Article writers will generally be paid $50 per article.
Argot Magazine is seeking written and illustrated submissions about queer and marginalized experiences. Click here for more on their mission as well as their pay rates.
Asymptote is accepting submissions of literary fiction, literary nonfiction, and poetry from the seven countries (Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen) directly affected by Trump’s travel ban. Contributors will be paid $200 per feature. Submissions are also being accepted on a rolling basis for other contributors and submission styles.
Carnation Books is accepting submissions and welcomes fanfiction writers seeking to transition into publishing their original writing content. They are also accepting applications for plot and line/style editors and marketing interns.
Online monthly magazine The Dark is accepting submissions from 2000 to 6000 words in length. Encouraged genres include horror and dark fantasy, but graphic, violent horror is not desired. Payment is $0.03/word for up to 6000 words. Republishing payment is $0.01/word.
Geeks of Color is looking for news reporters to contribute two stories per week.
Hello Equality is seeking trans and POC writers for their website. Speak on issues related to LGBTQ+ people, feminism, or pop culture topics.
Random House’s digital-only imprint Hydra has open submissions for completed works in the science fiction, fantasy, and horror categories. There is no word count limit for submissions, but full-length works of 40,000 words or more are preferred. Accepted writers will be assigned to a Random House editor, marketer, and publicist. Response time is usually 2-4 weeks.
Lillium Publishing is accepting fiction manuscripts, either standalone books or series, in a number of genres, including urban romance and erotica.
Lore Lush Publishing is accepting manuscript submissions in a number of genres. Diverse and inclusive works are prioritized. They also have open positions for editors, publicists, and more.
Makers in Malaysia is accepting registration applications for their upcoming English language zine celebrating the work of Malaysian creators.
The Mary Sue is looking for new contributors, particularly those with opinions on the current sociopolitical climate.
NerdyPOC is looking for experienced writers for commentary on pop culture. Expected submission is once every one or two weeks.
Pink Narcissus Press is seeking complete novel and novella manuscripts of 50,000 words or more. They are interested in well-written but non-mainstream speculative fiction with strong elements of sci-fi or fantasy.
Sky Pony Press is accepting submissions for picture books, chapter books, middle grade, and YA fiction and nonfiction.
StArt Faire Magazine is seeking interviewers, reviews, tutorials, and prose for their monthly e-magazine.
Swoon Reads is accepting submissions of complete novels for young adult and new adult fiction.
ThinkProgress is accepting pitches from freelance writers on topics such as climate policy, economy, reproductive rights, refugees, diverse perspectives, and more. Read here for guidelines on how to pitch.
The Trans Embodiment Zine is seeking submissions from artists and writers on a rolling basis for their monthly zine. No information is available about payment or publishing rights.
Tu Books, an imprint of Lee and Low Books, is actively seeking graphic novels for young readers starring Native and Muslim characters. There is also a call for written submissions of books that incorporate LGBTQ+ experiences and/or feature characters with disabilities.
Videodame is seeking contributors for their monthly guest residency. Contributors will be paid $50 for 1-4 pieces about or inspired by games and gaming culture.
Women Write About Comics is seeking contributors for their new Books section.
Check out writingcareer.com for a list of calls for submission!
Youth
Check out Comics Club, a new blog that highlights and connects comics clubs and shares advice and resources to help youth comic creators. Comics Club is currently hoping to hear from teachers and other educators, existing comics clubs, or members of the community with insight to offer or events to share.
GirlsWhoCode’s Summer Immersion Program is accepting applications for its free nationwide program. Check here to see if there’s a city near you offering a program.
Macmillian Children’s Publishing Group is hosting a giveaway for 5 middle grade graphic novels about science. Enter by February 28 for a chance to be one of ten winners.
Students are invited to submit an essay describing how a teacher has influenced their life by March 1. Winning entrants will be rewarded with a $500 Barnes & Noble gift certificate and NOOK device, and winning teachers will be recognized at their local Barnes & Noble store. 5 regional winning teachers will receive a $500 Barnes & Noble gift certificates, and the ultimate winner will receive $5000, as will the school they teach at.
Vancouver Island students in grade 8 through 12 are invited to submit to “In Your Own Voice 2017,” a teen anthology to be published by Rebel Mountain Press. Written works and visual art are welcome. Submit by March 31 to be considered. Selected contributors will receive a copy of the zine, and winners of the contest will receive cash prizes sponsored by Vancouver Island Regional Libraries.
Resources
Ahmed Beyrouthi shared great tips on rendering using gradients and opacity. Thank you Ahmed!
A number of Animation Resources have been uploaded to Flickr. Historical collections of walk cycles, reference sheets, and more are available for study.
Becca Hillburn of Nattosoup shared blog posts about her methods of Turning a Comic Script Into Thumbnails and Page Layouts and Finding and Using Critique. She also released a number of new videos on her Youtube channel, including information on using pigment inks for piston pens and using a Noodler’s Flex versus a Noodler’s Charlie.
Becca Hillburn is not only a provider of extensive, honest, and high-quality product reviews and tutorials, she’s a full-time comic artist and illustrator passionate about children’s lit and helping others. Check out her store, her book, or her Patreon and send her a “thank you” message if you can!
The Center for Cartoon Studies has a One-Week Cartooning Workout available to you for free through email sign up.
CharacterDesignReferences.com has amassed and organized a huge volume of work suited for, you guessed it, character design reference. This includes humans, animals, landscapes, and more. Check out the web version here or go straight to Pinterest to check out their boards.
Here’s an interesting graph comparing the number of subscribers in genres on Tapas with the number of creators of those genres. Thank you Genji Otori!
Here are a bunch of free resources for Clip Studio Paint!
The Creative Market offers new free resources each week. Sign up via email to be alerted each Monday.
The Famous Artists Cartoon Course is now available in the public domain.
Genice is posting tips on composition every week. Here’s last week’s tip on overall composition and this week’s tip on grouping. Thanks Genice!
Jetpens released a Guide to Nibs and Nib Holders and Waterproof Calligraphy Inks.
A new pack of brushes titled Shoujo Persistence is available at Shooting Stars! Thanks, Sam, for providing so many free, high-quality brushes!
Steve Ahn will be closing his popular Action Adventure Cinematic Storyboard Online Workshop class (Audit version) on February 28. If you’d still like access to the class information for a year after your purchase, be sure to do so by February 28.
Deals
Barnes and Noble is having a Buy 2 Get 1 Free sale on all Image comics through March 1.
Clip Studio Paint is on sale for up to 60% off until February 27.
Indigo has a 40% off sale on select manga titles.
Jerry’s Art-A-Rama has an ongoing “Buy It, Try It” sale with hundreds of art supplies on sale for $1 and $2.
Viz Media products are 33% off using code VIZ17 at RightStuf.com.
Zap! Creatives is offering 15% off clear printed acrylic charms with code “clear15”.
Remember to check ComiXology, Dick Blick, Jerry’s Art-A-Rama, Joann, Michael’s, and RightStuf for their weekly ads, coupons, and specials on comics and art supplies.
Giveaways
LGBT Fans Deserve Better is giving away 3 3-day passes to ClexaCon, happening in Las Vegas, NV March 3-6. Enter your name and email to be entered, and follow and tweet for additional entries! The giveaway closes February 25.
Webcomic Love Debut! is hosting a giveaway to win a clear acrylic charm or postcard print of character Sara or Nick from the comic. Giveaway ends February 26.
Autostraddle is giving away 6 camperships, some of which include travel accommodations and financial assistance, to trans women for their A-Camp in Wisconsin in May. Enter by February 27 for a chance to attend for free!
Retweet this tweet for a chance to win 50 A7 sticker sheets from Zap! Creatives. The winner will be announced on February 27.
Century Fox and AMC Theaters are featuring free showings of the movie Hidden Figures this weekend in select cities. Check here for the list of cities and on AMCTheatres.com to reserve your tickets. Schools, community organizations, and nonprofit organizations may request free viewings for groups by filling out this application before February 28.
Macmillian Children’s Publishing Group is hosting a giveaway for 5 middle grade graphic novels about science. Enter by February 28 for a chance to be one of ten winners.
Ash Brown of Experiments in Manga is holding a giveaway of the first Tokyo ESP omnibus volume. Comment with a description of your favorite psychic or esper from a manga series. The giveaway ends March 1.
JetPens is giving away a Kaweco fountain pen, Kaweco ink, and an Apica notebook. Giveaway ends March 1.
Yatta-Tachi is hosting a giveaway for 3-month subscriptions to Crunchyroll. Submit your email for one entry, and additional information for additional entries. 3 people will be selected. Entry submission closes on March 14.
Goodreads constantly offers giveaways for a variety of titles in all genres.
Raymond Larabie is offering a zip file of 686 fonts from 313 families.
That’s it for this week! Look out for another post next week with these categories and possibly more. Is there something you’d like to see more of? Something you know about but don’t see here? Comments and suggestions as this year comes to a close and a new one begins? Let me know!
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Link to the previous Roundup: Weekly Roundup – February 10, 2017
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