Barcelona-based illustrator Manuela Serrat has won the first prize in the sixth edition of the national comic contest Universo Goya, organized by Fundación Ibercaja, for her work Manual para reconocer a los monstruos. The second award went to Navarra’s Saioa Maritorena for her comic Algo nuevo.
The competition, aimed at young creators aged 18 to 30, seeks to engage new generations with the figure and work of Francisco de Goya through the medium of comics. This edition received 32 submissions from various parts of Spain, a level of participation that the jury highlighted for its artistic quality and the originality of the works. Of these, twelve have been selected to be included in a compilation book published by Fundación Ibercaja.
A Contemporary Reinterpretation of Goya
Manuela Serrat’s winning entry has been recognized for its innovative visual approach. The jury particularly appreciated the use of a vibrant color palette, the richness of characters and microstories, and a composition that draws parallels between Goya’s Caprichos and some of the «monsters» of contemporary society. The work combines geometry, symmetry, and a modern aesthetic to offer a current reflection inspired by the Aragonese painter’s universe.
Meanwhile, Algo nuevo by Saioa Maritorena has been distinguished for its narrative solidity and graphic expressiveness. The author imagines a Goya discovering the world of comics and approaching it with curiosity, in a story with an optimistic tone and accessible aesthetics aimed particularly at young audiences.
A Showcase for New Talents
In addition to the financial award, the twelve selected works will be published in a special volume edited by Fundación Ibercaja. Subsequently, both these works and those awarded in the fifth edition of the contest will be part of an exhibition that will be on display in December at the Espacio Joven Fundación Ibercaja, as part of the Zaragoza Comic Salon. The exhibition will then embark on a traveling tour across the foundation’s centers in Logroño, Huesca, Guadalajara, and Teruel.
The jury’s president, Juan Royo, emphasized the high artistic and technical level of the submitted works, reflecting the growing interest in comics as a medium for creation and cultural expression.
Growing Careers
Manuela Serrat (Barcelona, 1996) is a graphic designer with a master’s degree in Motion Design. Her work as an illustrator has been exhibited in international venues such as the Boomer Gallery in London, and she has received various accolades, including winning the graphic image contest for the Festa Major de Gràcia in 2025.
Saioa Maritorena (Leitza, Navarra, 2003) is pursuing a degree in Creation and Design at the University of the Basque Country. Among her awards are the accolade for best youth script at the Fescila Film Festival and second place in the Galtzakomik competition. Additionally, she will publish her first graphic novel this year.
