Mark Gruenwald Comic Book Creation Challenge Awards Ceremony
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September 20, 2023 – An annual contest honoring a hometown comic book legend is wrapping up its 2023 challenge.
The Mark Gruenwald Comic Book Creation Challenge honors the late Oshkosh native who drew and edited numerous volumes for comic giant Marvel from 1978-1996, including Captain America. Gruenwald served as Marvel’s executive editor from 1987 until his death in 1996.
The challenge tasks individuals and teams to create an original comic which will be judged on originality, artwork, story, and character development. There are six age categories for entry, and this year 34 completed comics were submitted, an increase from last year.
Participants received a free art kit loaded with supplies to help them bring their ideas to life, sponsored by the Oshkosh Mid-Morning Kiwanis.
The program is in its fifth year, and is currently organized by the Winnebago Area Literacy Council, Oshkosh Public Library, House of Heroes, and EAA.
According to organizers, the comic book challenge promotes literacy through comic books and graphic novels by creating an event for everyone.
“Comic books and graphic novels include heroes of all ages, genders, abilities, and social classes,” explains Julia Frascona of the Winnebago Area Literacy Council. “These stories take place in a variety of time periods, in locations near and far, with themes that resonate with a broad range of readers.”
The prize ceremony will take place at the Oshkosh Public Library under the dome on Saturday, September 30th from 1 – 2 pm. This year’s submissions will be on display. This event is free to attend and open to the public.
