The annual Thought Bubble 2000AD Artist Talent Search and the Writer Talent Search provides one avenue into working in what is, sadly one of the few mainstream British comics remaining, and publisher Rebellion is at least making a concerted effort to encourage creative opportunities.
I have to confess that while I’m all for encouraging New Talent opportunities when it comes to encouraging new writers and artists, and have tried to do so when editing comics and magazines – but I’m curious to know if others aren’t comfortable with turning the process into something akin to TV game show, when it comes to getting a shot. Because it certainly wasn’t how I broke into the industry, or many others, too, including many mentioned in promotional material for this year’s event.
It’s a concern I have previously raised directly, previously – and, as I said, I’m curious to know what others think, so do comment below – but don’t let me put anyone off if you want to give this a try!
Good luck to all those entering! And a big thank you to Rebellion for the very specific ban on the use of AI, too!
Here’s the full announcement from 2000AD about this year’s hunt for New Talent…
The 2000AD Writer and Artist Talent Searches Return For Thought Bubble 2026
Do you have what it takes to be a 2000AD creator? We’re looking for the best new talent to join The Galaxy’s Greatest Comic as the 2000 AD Talent Search returns for Thought Bubble Comic Convention 2026!
This is our annual search for the next generation of great new comics talent – with the prize of paid work with the comic book 2000AD, where legendary creators such as Alan Moore, Jock, Brian Bolland, Al Ewing, Si Spurrier, DaNi, Charlie Adlard and many more got their big break.
This is the only Talent Search of its kind anywhere in the World, in partnership with Thought Bubble UK – and exclusive to the Festival!
Previous winners like Rory McConville, Laura Bailey, Tom Foster, Honor Vincent, Sinu Senan and Will Morris have all gone to regular work with the Galaxy’s Greatest Comic and beyond – and you could be joining them! Whether you’re into sci-fi, horror, fantasy or anything in between: everyone is welcome, and we’re especially looking for pitches from women and creators from marginalised communities.
For artists, we have a published Time Twisters script from the mighty Rob Williams called “The Prophect of Lekbith The Great And Terrible” for you to download and draw. Bring your pages to the 2000AD booth at Thought Bubble on Saturday 14th November and you’ll be able to receive a short portfolio review from our editors.
The shortlisted entrants will then be invited to attend the Artist Talent Search Panel on Sunday 15th November, where the winner will be decided by our ace panel of judges!
For writers, we’d like you to pitch us a two-minute idea for a Future Shock story. This is a five page story which has a twist on the last page – and has been a foundational part of 2000AD since the beginning!
Register your name on Saturday 15th November at the 2000 AD booth and on Sunday 15th November we’ll hold our Writer Talent Search Panel, where we’ll select as many entrants as possible through random ballot to stand up before a team of judges and pitch their story LIVE!
The use of generative AI in the creation of work is prohibited, and any entry found to be using AI within their creative process will be removed and banned from future entry.
You can only enter the contests if you’re physically attending this year’s Thought Bubble Festival – head to the official site page here for full terms, conditions, and information on how to take part in both the Artist Talent Search and the Writer Talent Search!
• Read the full competition details and terms & conditions here
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John is the founder of downthetubes, launched in 1998. He is a comics and magazine editor, writer, and Press Officer for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. He also runs Crucible Comic Press.
Working in British comics publishing since the 1980s, his credits include editor of titles such as Doctor Who Magazine and Overkill for Marvel UK, Babylon 5 Magazine, Star Trek Magazine, and its successor, Star Trek Explorer, and more. He also edited the comics anthology STRIP Magazine and edited several audio comics for ROK Comics; and has edited several comic collections and graphic novels, including volumes of “Charley’s War” and “Dan Dare”, and Hancock: The Lad Himself, by Stephen Walsh and Keith Page.
He’s the writer of comics such as Pilgrim: Secrets and Lies for B7 Comics; “Crucible”, a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz; and “Death Duty” and “Skow Dogs”, with Dave Hailwood.
Categories: 2000AD, British Comics, Comic Art, Comics, Creating Comics, downthetubes Comics News, downthetubes News, Events
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