I've just finished the final draft (part1/2) of a 100,000 word Sci-Fi novel. In my search for an editor, it appeared many UK editors lacked experience in my genre, or simply didn't have the right profile fit, which I feel is very important. I even enquired to the writers & artist, only to be met with more of the same. I'm now working with an experienced editor in the US who is a perfect fit, and I was actually spoilt for choice over there.
On top of that, many agents and publishing houses here, don't even give my genre the time of day. There are exceptions of course, but why do so many stay away from it?
Are there any other Sci/Fi/Fantasy writers out there who feel we get a raw deal? If so, I'd love to hear from you.
There is a lot of self published SF in the UK. Whether this is because major publishers are more cautious, or because it's easy and affordable to self publish, I don't know.
Obviously you get the freedom with self publishing, but you also have to do all the marketing yourself. This is also where the smaller independent publishers such as Elsewhen Press come in to play, as they are often more daring and bold with the authors they publish.
You can see my work on my website: http://thelightdream.net
And there's a dedicated page to my cover art: http://thelightdream.net/art/book_covers/book_cover_design.html
If it helps, you can look into UK writer who have published books in sci-fi/fantasy and see who they turned to.
That sounds about right, "frowned upon" not the right way to put it.
I'm looking at the self-publishing route too. I'm some ways off that, but It would be interesting to see some of your work, for future reference.
Do you have web/social-media sites with examples of covers you've created?