A minor problem with a comics major

Does an aspiring comics artist/writer need a college degree? And, if so, which degree is best? Next, a listener asks why Brad publishes his weekly comics page in half-page increments.

• What schools do we recommend ?
• Why does Brad publish twice a week?
• Substack and Bluesky

Summary

In this episode of ComicLab, hosts Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore the importance of higher education for aspiring cartoonists, debating the merits of specialized degrees versus a broader liberal arts education. They emphasize the significance of writing in comics, the value of community colleges, and the necessity for aspiring artists to actively create comics during their education. The episode concludes with a discussion on the optimal update frequency for comic creators, highlighting the balance between reader engagement and creative output. In this conversation, Brad Guigar and his co-host discuss the nuances of storytelling in comics, emphasizing the importance of finding a 'sweet spot' in panel structure and update frequency. They explore the challenges of conveying narratives in short formats, particularly in the context of webcomics, and the need to adapt to new platforms and formats for compelling storytelling. The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of comic publishing, including the potential of platforms like Substack and Bluesky.

Takeaways

• Ramekins can elevate home dining experiences.
• Education is crucial for aspiring cartoonists.
• Writing is the backbone of successful comics.
• A liberal arts education provides a broad perspective.
• Community colleges offer valuable opportunities.
• Creating comics during college is essential.
• The frequency of updates can impact reader engagement.
• Specialized degrees may not be necessary for comic artists.
• Critical thinking skills are vital in education.
• Experience often outweighs degree prestige in job markets. Finding a sweet spot in storytelling is crucial.
• Panel structure significantly impacts narrative pacing.
• Short formats can hinder storytelling effectiveness.
• Adapting to new comic formats is essential for success.
• Webcomics require a different approach than traditional comics.
• Engaging the audience is key to retaining readers.
• Two updates a week can enhance audience interaction.
• Using social media effectively can boost comic visibility.
• Exploring new platforms can open up opportunities for creators.
• Understanding the limitations of formats helps in storytelling.

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.