Nobel Prize for Manga

I have yet to get in to Manga. I know what it is and have a vague understanding of the genre. Nevertheless, quality work is quality work and Japan has decided to recognize it with "The International Manga Award."

The International Manga Award — which manga enthusiast Foreign Minister Taro Aso likened to a "Nobel Prize" when he first proposed it last year — will be given to an artist working abroad whose work best contributes to the spread of the manga form worldwide...

The winner will receive a certificate and a yet-to-be-designed trophy. Hmmm...a Manga Nobel Prize trophy. The creative design possibilities are endless! Stay tuned July 2 for the announcement and awards ceremony.

Are you a Manga enthusiast? Who would you vote for?