Graphic works have been included in the shortlists for the first time this year.

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Works of graphic and plastic art are objects whose value is tied to their physical form.

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The logo that Mr. Glaser imagined in traffic has since become one of the most widely imitated works of graphic art in the world.

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"We feel very fortunate to be in Charlotte, where things have held up so well, " says graphic designer Phil Evans, who works from his 2, 600-square-foot, two-story home.

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Gaiman, whose honors include the Newbery Medal for children's writing, the Hugo for science-fiction and fantasy and a Carnegie Medal in literature, has written fantasy epics "Neverwhere" and "American Gods" and the groundbreaking graphic-novel series "The Sandman, " among other works.

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The best news for Baum buffs, however, is a beautiful series of graphic novels lovingly adapted by Eric Shanower and Skottie Young from the original "canonical" works, currently being released by Marvel Comics.

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