Culture Comics: Young Creators Reimagine Black Culture Through Graphic Novels

Late last year, we put out a call to young minds across the UK, and the response blew us away.

The Culture Comics: Graphic Novel Competition, launched by Opal22 Arts and Edutainment in partnership with the Stephen Lawrence Research Centre, invited young people aged 12 to 18 to explore and express Black culture through the playful, powerful medium of graphic storytelling. And now… the results are in.

Why graphic novels? Because they’re bold, imaginative, and make reading feel like an adventure. We wanted to give young people a creative space to reflect on the world around them, using a format that speaks their language. What came back were stories that were deeply personal, wildly inventive, and full of heart — from reflections on Black family legacies to clever critiques of cultural stereotypes, to poetic comics exploring identity, joy, and belonging.

These young creators showed us what it means to imagine the future while honouring the past. Through their eyes, we saw a new generation asking big questions — about history, heritage, power, and place — and answering them with courage and creativity.

Public Exhibition at LCB Depot: Come See the Magic

From 25th April to 16th May, the top entries were exhibited at the LCB Depot Gallery in Leicester. But this was no ordinary exhibition. We transformed the gallery into an interactive, story-rich space where visitors could view the comics, respond to the same prompts, and join conversations sparked by the stories on display. It was a celebration of talent, voice, and perspective — and a reminder that our young people have something powerful to say.

Coming Soon: The Culture Comics Anthology

Can’t make the exhibition? Don’t worry. All winning comics will be professionally published in a curated anthology, available to purchase soon. This collection is more than just a book, it’s a vibrant time capsule of youth creativity, culture, and vision.

Stay tuned. The future of storytelling is here, and it’s drawn by a new generation.

Step by Step Guidance

Step 1. Download the guidance pack and templates from our website

Step 2. Research into your topic and think of ideas on how to answer your question

Step. 3 Create your comic within the guideline rules

Step 4. Submit your entry either digitally or physically

 

Who Can Participate?

Q. Who can participate?

Any young person aged 12-18 residing in the UK

Q. Can I submit for the category outside my age range?

It is recommended that each submission answers the question that matches their age at the competition deadline. However, you may choose to answer the other prompt if you prefer. 

 

Competition Details

Q.What format should my submission be in?

Submissions can be up to two A4 pages and can be digital (PDF, JPEG, PNG) or physical copies

Q. What tools or mediums can I use for my entry?

Any medium is allowed, including traditional drawing tools (pencil, ink, paint) or digital illustration software.
You are not allowed to use any AI!

Q. How do I submit my entry?

You can submit in one of the following ways: 

Digital Submissions: Upload your files through the Portal linked either on the Opal22 website or school pack provided.

Physical Submissions: Mail your submissions to

Opal22 Arts and Edutainment,
Studio 9, Phoenix Studios,
253-255 Belgrave Gate,
Leicester, LE1 3HU

Ensure adequate time so your submission arrives before 2nd March 2025.

Q. How do I know my submission has been received?

Participants submitting digitally should receive a confirmation email. For physical submissions, consider using tracked delivery for confirmation.

Q. What rights do I retain over my work?

Participants will retain copyright to their submissions but grant Opal22 permission to publish and exhibit the work and use their work within promotional materials.

 

Judges and Prizes

Q. Who will judge the entries?

Initial judging will come from a panel of experts from across the creative, media, and educational industries. Final judgement will by Comics Laureate, Bobby Joseph

Q. When will the winners and prizes be announced?

The top 50 winners will be announced by the 31st March. The workshop with Bobby Joseph shall take place in April and the Graphic Novel release and exhibition will take place in the summer of 2025. The official timeline will be announced after winners are selected.

Q. Do I have to attend the workshop if I win?

Attendance is not mandatory, but winners are encouraged to participate to gain valuable experience. There will be an online stream for those who cannot physically attend. 

Q.Will the graphic novel be available for purchase?

Yes, the graphic novel will be available for purchase for a limited time and will include all 50 top entries from the competition. 

 

Eligibility and Participation

Q. Can I collaborate with others on my entry?

All entries must be submitted by individuals. If you are struggling with your design, we encourage you to reach out to info@opal22.co.uk

Q. Can I submit multiple entries?

Each participant is allowed one entry to ensure fairness in the competition

Q. Do I need parental or guardian permission to participate?

Yes, participants under 16 require parental or guardian consent, as specified in the detailed guidelines

Q. What if I don’t identify as Black? Can I still participate?

Yes! The competition is open to all young people regardless of ethnicity. The themes encourage exploration of cultural and societal issues from diverse perspectives

Q. Who do I contact if I have any more questions about the competition?

If you have any questions about the competition, the exhibition or about the Graphic Novel release you can reach out to info@opal22.co.uk