What are graphic narratives? How do I create a compelling comic or graphic novel? How can I be published?
Express Media is proud to present the 2021 return of Toolkits: Graphic Narratives – an online course in the forms, skills, and ethics of creating graphic narratives. This program will combine theoretical approaches, practical exercises, and one-on-one mentorship to guide young writers through the development of their work.
During this 12-week intensive, 8 young writers explore the many and varied formats of graphic storytelling. Participants will both learn the applications of graphic storytelling and discuss the history and innovations of this unique literary practice. Toolkits: Graphic Narratives covers a strong foundation in the familiar, such as comic strips, graphic novels, and manga, but isn’t afraid to branch into the experimental.
Toolkits is first and foremost a practical initiative. Young writers will be encouraged to create, write, workshop and edit their work throughout the course. They will hone their skills in textual analysis, create their own original work (which can be fictional, autobiographical, biographical or journalistic), explore the possibilities of collaborative work, and learn how to pitch work to publishers when they’re done.
The lead facilitator for Toolkits: Graphic Narratives 2021 will be announced in the week of Monday 8 February. Participants also have the chance to learn from some of Australia’s best comics artists, with special guests presenting live and online sessions for the next generation across the country.
If you are a young writer or artist interested in graphic storytelling, we want to hear from you!
Applications are now closed
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Claudia Chinyere Akole | Toolkits: Graphic Narratives Facilitator
Claudia Chinyere Akole is an exhibiting artist, freelance illustrator, cartoonist, designer, animator, and educator based in Sydney, Australia (unceded lands of the Gadigal and Wangal Peoples of the Eora Nation). She works as a graphic designer in TV broadcast, as a freelance illustrator, and creates comics and illustrations in her personal practice. She’s an art hag who bleeds pink – and a notorious crybaby with work that tends to cover cultural identity, abstraction, and mental health.
Have a question? Need help with your application? Send an email to Express Media’s Creative Producer Magenta Sheridan at creativeproducer@expressmedia.org.au.
Toolkits: Graphic Narratives is generously supported by The Copyright Agency Cultural Fund
