The Spanish comic book world is awaiting the results of the second annual Premio Zona Negativa al cómic nacional, recognizing outstanding national comic works. A shortlist of five titles has been announced by Zona Negativa, a leading voice in Spanish comics criticism, setting the stage for an award ceremony on March 17th. This year’s nominees represent a diverse range of styles and storytelling, highlighting the current vibrancy of the Spanish comic scene.
The Premio Zona Negativa, established in 2025 to coincide with the publication’s 25th anniversary, aims to celebrate the best in Spanish-language comics. According to Zona Negativa, the selection process involved a careful deliberation over a large number of submissions, ultimately narrowing the field to these five exceptional works. The award seeks to acknowledge not only artistic merit but also the unique contributions each comic makes to the medium.
The Nominees
Here’s a closer look at the five nominated titles, presented in alphabetical order:
Black Metal, by Magius
Black Metal, originally published by Autsaider Cómics, is a visually striking work penned and illustrated entirely by Magius. Eduardo Bravo served as the text corrector, with David Molima handling the layout and Ata Lassalle responsible for the design. The 220-page, cartoné edition is available for €25. A review of the work is available on Zona Negativa’s website. Read the review here.
Brunilda en la Plata, by Genís Rigol
Genís Rigol’s Brunilda en la Plata, a translation of the original French work Brunilda à la Plata (Virages graphiques), is published in Spain by Apa-Apa Cómics. Rigol is responsible for the script, artwork, and color, while Sergi Puyol handled the layout and design, and Toni Mascardó served as editorial director. The 160-page cartoné edition is priced at €22.90. A review of the comic is available on Zona Negativa.
Encías quemadas, by Natalia Velarde
Natalia Velarde is the sole creator behind Encías quemadas, handling the script, artwork, and color. The original edition was published by Reservoir Books. The cartoné edition spans 192 pages and costs €22.90. A review of the work can be found on Zona Negativa’s website.
En vela, by Ana Penyas
Ana Penyas is the creator of En vela, responsible for the script, artwork, and color. Sergi Puyol composed the work. Published by Salamandra Graphic, the cartoné edition contains 164 pages and is priced at €25.95. A review is available on Zona Negativa.
Margarita contra los vampiros, by Javier Pérez Andújar and Raquel Gu
Margarita contra los vampiros, from Liana Editorial, is a collaboration between writer Javier Pérez Andújar and artist Raquel Gu. Pepe Montilla provided correction, and Gabriel Regueiro handled the rotulation and layout. The work is a 136-page, softcover edition priced at €25. A review of the comic can be found on Zona Negativa.
The Announcement
The winner of the Premio Zona Negativa al cómic nacional will be announced on March 17th. Fans of Spanish comics can follow Zona Negativa for updates and further insights into the nominated works. You can also listen to Zona Negativa’s podcast for more discussion on the award and the nominees.
The announcement of the winner marks a significant moment for the Spanish comics industry, recognizing artistic achievement and contributing to the ongoing conversation about the medium. Stay tuned for the results and further coverage of the Premio Zona Negativa.
What are your thoughts on the nominees? Share your opinions in the comments below.
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