| Inkwell Award | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Awarded for | Excellence in comic book inking |
| Country | United States |
| Presented by | The Inkwell Awards Committee |
| First awarded | July, 2008 |
| Website | http://www.inkwellawards.com/ |
The Inkwell Award, sometimes shortened to the Inkwells, is a trophy given in the field of inking in American comic books. Its mission statement is "To promote and educate about the craft of comic book inking and to show recognition for ink artists."[1]
In January 2008, Bob Almond proposed the idea of an award to recognize the contributions of comic book inkers.[2] Founding members were artists Tim Townsend, Jim Tournas, Bill Nichols, and writer Daniel Best,[3] with artist Adam Hughes and DC Comics editor Mike Marts lending support.[4]
The Hall of Fame Award was named in honor of veteran comic book inker Joe Sinnott.[2]
In remembrance of artist Dave Simons,[5] the Dave Simons Inkwell Memorial Scholarship was established, a $1,000 award granted annually to a student attending the Joe Kubert School of Cartoon and Graphic Art.[6]
Wizard Entertainment sponsored the first live Inkwell Awards Presentation at The New England Comic Con on October 1–3, 2010.[7] In 2011, Heroes Convention took up the position of host show for the annual live presentation ceremony.[8]
In 2019, the Inkwells moved to the Great Philadelphia Comic Con! in Oaks, Pennsylvania.[9][10][11]
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, live awards presentations were suspended from 2020 on.[12][13]
The Inkwell Awards are funded via donations.[14] In 2010, funds were raised via a book produced by Jimmy Tournas at the Boston Comic Con.[15]
Favorite ink artists over the pencil work of another artist from award year cover-dated, interior, American comic book material.
Most-Adaptable Inker
Ink artist "showing ink style versatility" in award year interior, cover-dated, American comic book material.
Ink artists "deserving of more attention" for their work from award year interior cover-dated American comic book material.
Favorite Small Press And Mainstream-Independent award year interior, cover-dated, American comic book ink work over another pencil artist (Non-Marvel or DC work).
Artists known for inking their own pencil work in award year interior, cover-dated, American comic book material.
The Special Recognition Award AKA the Stacey Aragon Special Recognition Award in honor of the Inkwells supporter "who passed after a decade-long battle with cancer".[25]
A hall of fame designation for an inking career in American comic books (lifetime achievement, 25 years minimum; two winners chosen annually).
In celebration of the 10th anniversary in 2018, Almond created this award for organization members or non-members who have made "special efforts".
The position of ambassador recognizes creators for their support for the Inkwell Awards. Unless noted otherwise, all ambassadors continue to hold this position.[50]
These supporting artists who help advocate for inkers are called ambassadors.[62]
At many of the live ceremonies, notable comic book creators were invited as guests of honor and keynote speakers.
Artist Dan Panosian designed the Inkwell Awards logo. Randy Green designed the Ms. Inkwell spokesperson costume.[82]