Blending words and pictures to create a unique story-telling experience, comic books have opened up new and imaginative worlds, including the famous Marvel and DC universes.
However, comic books aren’t just relegated to the hero genre but can span drama, horror, fantasy, romance, science fiction, and—of course—comedy, among others.
If you’ve written a comic book and want to have it published, plenty of indie comic book publishers accept stories from a range of genres and art styles.
On that note, here is a list of the top ten independent comic book publishers and what type of submissions they’re looking for.
Fantagraphics
Fantagraphics has been around for over forty years and has worked with large names like Disney and Peanuts alongside small independent creators.
The publisher is known for accepting unique comic books that don’t fit the usual mold. Fantagraphics will only publish work ready to go and complete with illustrations—they do not provide illustrative assistance.
Oni Press
Founded in 1997, Oni Press has published a number of award-winning titles, including Wasteland and Rick and Morty.
Science fiction, horror, and fantasy, among other genres, are popular with Oni Press. While the publisher is often closed for submissions, they occasionally open up submissions for a short period of time.
Aftershock Comics
Still new to the industry, Aftershock Comics was founded in 2015 and has since distinguished itself with its science fiction and horror releases.
The publisher is occasionally open for submissions from writers and will also seek talent through self-published comics as well as those published by other publishers. Aftershock Comics will also accept submissions from pencillers and colorists.
Image Comics
Image Comics is one of the largest comic book publishers in the US and was founded in 1992. The publisher is known for accepting comics from a wide range of genres, such as fantasy, dystopian, romance, thriller, and cyberpunk, among others.
Only creator-owned comics are accepted, and Image Comics will also consider submissions from artists and writers—though writers are expected to submit proposals only and not completed manuscripts.
Humanoids
A European publisher that has since expanded its audience to the US, Humanoids was founded back in 1974.
The publisher is simply looking for good original comics regardless of genre. Complete works are accepted, provided the creator fills out Humanoid’s forms. Writers are also accepted, and if chosen, the publisher will provide a creative team to add the visual elements to the story. Artists are also accepted and may get the chance to work on future Humanoid projects.
Antarctic Press
Founded in 1984, Antarctic Press has become a major comic book publisher. They are known for having manga/anime-style artwork but are willing to accept other art styles.
The publisher accepts completed works and is willing to accept submissions from artists—as long as it’s a completed issue.
Heroic Publishing
As the name suggests, Heroic Publishing is all about publishing hero comics. The publisher has been in business for around 25 years and focuses on presenting heroes who are more than their abilities. While each hero may have their flaws, the publisher wants stories with heroes that try their best to live up to the heroic ideal.
While the publisher does not currently accept unsolicited submissions, submissions that are backed by an agent may be considered.
Sloth Comics
Many comic book publishers cater to a more mature audience, but Sloth Comics primarily publishes comics for kids. It was started in 2010 and features stories from a wide array of genres.
Unsolicited manuscripts are not accepted, though they may be accepted in the future. As such, submissions through an agent are the best way to get your work in front of Sloth Comics.
Darby Pop Publishing
Darby Pop Publishing was founded in 2013 and is known for its high-concept and high-quality visual storytelling. Action and mystery are two of the more common genres featured by the publishing house.
Unsolicited submissions of completed works are accepted but must be submitted along with a signed waiver to be considered.
Drawn & Quarterly
One of the largest comic book publishers in Canada, Drawn & Quarterly was founded in 1989 and is known for publishing high-quality books.
Unusual and quirky comics for kids or an older audience are accepted. Submissions must contain a minimum of twenty pages and be already drawn. Decks, sizzle reels, scripts, and character sketches are not accepted.
Final Thoughts
There are many indie comic book publishers to choose from. One of the best ways to choose the best one for you is to compare your artwork/comic with comics that the publisher has already published. Lastly, if you are submitting a completed comic, make sure to include all the contributors in your submission.
Additionally, it’s worth exploring children’s book publishers and Christian book publishers to broaden your understanding of industry trends and find the perfect fit for your work.
