Congratulations to Martin Ernstsen for winning the award Comic Book of the Year 2024 for his graphic novel Men hvem er du? (Publisher: Gyldendal Norsk Forlag AS). The award is presented by Serieteket (Deichman Grünerløkka), Grafill and Tegnerforbundet. The purpose of the award is to help highlight the importance of Norwegian cartoonists and stimulate a higher level of professionalism. The Norwegian Comics Association's representative on the jury, Anders Kvammen, presented the award during Oslo Comics Expo on Saturday, June 8. The diploma is designed by Ronny Haugeland.
The jury's reasoning:
This year's winner has a long and eventful career behind him, and has created comics in many different genres. With his unique drawing style and distinctive sense of color, it's no coincidence when this artist moves his brush across the paper. This comic, which is well placed within the confines of reality literature, balances refined visual effects and norm-breaking comic panels that give the story life and depth.
It is a remarkable work that hits us brutally and honestly. Despite the book's heavy theme, Alzheimer's in close relationships, the narrative never feels intrusive or overbearing, but appears as a natural part of life. Although uncomfortable at times, the reader is left with a sense of reconciliation and cleansing at the end of the book. This is a book that will be important and relevant for relatives in the same situation.
Comic Book of the Year 2024 goes to Martin Ernstsen for the graphic novel Men hvem er du?
