ECPSI (Session 1) [Commuter] - Alternative Comics and Graphic Novels

Investigate visual storytelling strategies through the contemporary art forms of alternative comics and graphic novels. This course introduces a variety of illustrative approaches, such as writing, storyboarding, penciling, inking/coloring, and prepress preparations with a diverse exploration of materials including pencil, pen, ink, and collage. Building on this foundation, students learn research methods to develop ideas and produce conceptually-driven, portfolio-quality works through projects that examine narrative structures, material choices, and the integration of text and image. Students are introduced to contemporary artists, illustrators, and designers who transcend the traditional approaches of comics and graphic novels to generate their own audiences. Regular critiques and field trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Contemporary Art, and/or local galleries and comic shops supplement the studio experience.