The Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards, commonly shortened to the Eisner Awards, are prizes given for creative achievement in American comic books, referred to as the comics industry's equivalent to the Academy Awards.[1][2] The awards are regarded by many as the most prestigious, significant awards in the comics industry. They are named in honor of the pioneering writer and artist Will Eisner, who was a regular participant in the award ceremony until his death in 2005.[3] The Eisner Awards include the Comic Industry's Hall of Fame.
The nominations in each category are generated by a five- to a six-member jury, then voted on by comic book professionals and presented at the annual San Diego Comic-Con held in July, usually on Friday night.[4] The jury often consists of at least one comics retailer, one librarian (since 2005), and one academic researcher, among other comics experts.
History
The Eisner Awards and Harvey Awards were first conferred in 1988, both created in response to the discontinuation of the Kirby Awards in 1987.[3]Dave Olbrich started the non-profit organization.[5]
There was no Eisner Award ceremony, or awards distributed, in 1990, due to widespread balloting mix-ups.[6] The previous administrator, Dave Olbrich, left the position,[6] and Jackie Estrada has been the award administrator since 1990.[5] The Eisner Award ceremony has been held at the San Diego Comic-Con every year since 1991.[5]
