Writing for artists

So today we were invited to give a talk at Sewell Park Academy about how writing and English can benefit people in their working life, both in terms of writing for artists but also when applying for jobs, writing reports etc.

As a quick summary, here is why I personally think studying English is beneficial, both in terms of creative writing and employment in general-

• A deeper understanding of the texts you read (as well as books this can also apply to films, TV, news and anything you see on social media)
• Argue points more effectively (Don’t just say something is “over-rated”, tell us why!)
• Analysis skills- If you are applying for a job, being able to read between the lines of a job description and create an application that reflects what an employer wants increases your chances of getting an interview.
• Being able to give and receive feedback in a more beneficial way, something that is crucial when it comes to writing for artists (Also other tips here).

Writing for artists

So before I carry on I just want to be clear this is what I do when writing for artists and is not necessarily the style of every comic publisher. If you are looking to submit work to a publisher, always check their submission guidelines and style before you submit to them (this is more something that I have found works for me after years of trial and error)

Page 2

No of panels: 5 (We added this to help artists know how many panels are on the page)

PANEL 1- We are in Dr Antibiotix’s alternative health clinic. Vibes (Brunette, T-shirt,
jeans and shoes) is lying on a couch looking annoyed while Dr Anty is sitting on a leather
chair writing notes using a funny shaped novelty pen.

( Note- Personally I believe you need to have some details but not too much to offer some creative freedom for the artist. If an artist asks, it helps to get some reference images if they need it)

Anty: Have you been having these dreams very often Veronica?

Vibes: I told you before I hate that name. Call me Vibes.

Anty (linked): Right.

PANEL 2- CLOSE UP- Anty writes down “She must discover the truth for themselves.” (This was particularly important as this is a crucial plot point in this issue)

Feel free to put on any doodles that you want but it must include one pic of Vibes
becoming AK Girl! ( Again, when writing for artists it’s nice to allow artists to add their own Easter eggs and references if they want)

PANEL 3- Anty smiles sympathetically at Vibes as he looks at his watch.

Anty: Time’s up.

Vibes: Don’t I get a sweetie for being good?

PANEL 4- Vibes goes to grab one but Anty looks at her.
Anty: Remember- no caramel. (People who know the comic know why this is a crucial detail. For more info look up the character bios!)

Vibes: I never understood that.

Anty (thought): Me neither.

Caption: My parents called me Veronica Hannah McAllister but people call me Vibes.

PANEL 5- Vibes clutches her head.

Caption: And lately…I’ve started seeing things. (Note- We changed this from previous comics, as the captions aren’t from a narrator but from Vibes’ POV as we felt it gave people more of a personal connection to the story, something we got through Deviantart and other feedback)

What I like about this is that it sets up the situation- Nicholas and Syd’s art is excellent in that it conveys the emotion of the scene I was hoping for. You can see Vibes is uncomfortable in this situation, Anty is holding back but for the right reasons. I also liked the choice of Anty using a quill pen as it establishes the quirkier aspect of his personality early on.

Feel inspired? Join our writing contest to be featured in our next collection and potentially win prizes- More info here!

Speaking of writers, happy birthday to Ian Austin, who created the character El Paso Grande and worked on a number of Reynard City scripts (the character will be featured in Reynard City Chronicles Issue 2)

We have so many people who have worked on this awesome project and there’s not enough to space to name them all, so here are some videos and pictures to give thanks, you all rock!