BEANO – the longest running weekly comic in the world – has broken a new record with the launch of the biggest competition to finish a comic strip.
The competition, held to mark the opening of the new V&A in Dundee, has attracted a total of 650 entrants all trying their hand at a suitably funny piece of artwork.
Visitors to Scotland’s first design museum were challenged to complete a bespoke eight-page V&A Dundee inspired comic strip, starring beloved Beano characters including Dennis and Gnasher, Minnie the Minx and The Bash Street Kids.
The winner is yet to be named but will win the opportunity to have their comic strip displayed in V&A Dundee, alongside the official Guinness World Records certificate.
In the exclusive comic strip, pupils of Bash Street School are invited to the opening of the museum, where they meet architect Kengo Kuma and director Philip Long.
The final panel challenges entrants to draw something they think should be on display in V&A Dundee.
Selected entries are available to view on Beano.com and include the drawing of a whoopee cushion with Dennis approvingly commenting: “Now that’s Phart!”
One entrant drew newsreader John Snow’s tie collection, while another cheekily drew a pair of glasses with the comment “so the old people can see the final frame”.
The new record adds to Beano’s collection, as they also hold the Guinness World Records’ title for longest-running comic published weekly, breaking its own record with each new issue published.
“This new world record proves the ever-lasting love for our rebellious Beano characters, especially in
their home city of Dundee,” said Mike Stirling, editorial director of Beano Studios and Global Ambassador for Dundee. “The competition shows that everyone can design something imaginative, creative and awesome.
“It’s no surprise to me that there’s so much fantastic creative talent in the city; Beano and V&A Dundee are iconic symbols of this. Is there a more creative city anywhere, right now?”
Philip Long, director of V&A Dundee, said the Beano was an icon of design in its own right.
“Beano Studios is a prime example of contemporary design evolution, adapting their character design over time to survive and thrive,” he said. “We look forward to welcoming audiences to view the winning design, alongside our Scottish Design Galleries and changing exhibitions.”
V&A Dundee opened its doors to the public for the first time on Saturday. As Scotland’s first design museum, it explores the international importance of design alongside the country’s design achievements.
At the heart of the museum the Scottish Design Galleries feature 300 exhibits drawn from the V&A’s rich collections of Scottish design. Fans of the Beano can see original artwork on display from across the 80-year history of the comic.
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