in the role promoting the comics form in the UK. The Comics Laureate, a role initiated by librarian and, currently, a director of the School Library Association, Paul Register, then developed by the Arts Council England-funded LICAF arts organisation, is an ambassadorial and educational role, that aims to raise awareness of the impact comics can have in terms of increasing literacy and creativity. The appointment is made bi-annually.
Former Comics Laureate Holland created numerous reading recommendation lists for newcomers to graphic novels and educators, available on the Festival's website and made appearances across the country to promote comics and comic creators. Previously, Hannah Berry was known for creating payment surveys for comic creators and held comic book workshops in prisons.
Working closely with the Lakes International Comics Art Festival and its national and international partners, the Comics Laureate champions the role of comics in improving literacy through a programme of educational visits, workshop events, guest appearances and conferences. A key focus remains working to increase the acceptance of comics as a creative art form in schools, libraries and throughout the education system.
"I am proud and truly humbled to be the new Comics Laureate," Bobby commented. I'm looking forward to working with the Festival organisation, and seeing what can be achieved. Hopefully, it will be a positive, lasting change for the UK comics scene."Director, of The Lakes International Comic Art Festival, said:"We're delighted Bobby is taking on the role of Comics Laureate. The Comics Laureate has been and continues to be a vital role for the comics art form.