Sunday, July 30, 2006

45 - Women in Comics


This is probably not the best time to be talking about this, as I'm almost levitating and I'm certainly typing in tongues, somewhat. But this is the reason why we're here today.

I guess I've always considered myself a little bit of the odd girl out when it comes to most things. I was a Tomboy growing up (shocking!) and I don't care that much about makeup, fashion and the like. I know what I like and that's about it. I also love comics, which used to not be the norm.

There are now SO many women producing and creating comics, that I don't feel like that much of an outsider anymore. But there is still a HUGE audience out there of women that would probably read more comics if there were some that were marketed towards them.

The scales are sadly tipped in the favor of male readers, and part of that has to do with the medium. There are TONS of women who love comics, I know a lot of them myself, who do read superhero books, and non super hero stuff. We just need more titles!

Was that coherent?

In other news, Bryan is wondering how any woman can enjoy Jim Balent's artwork seeing as how, its pretty suggestive in nature, and how any woman wouldn't be offended.

My sister, being the authority on Catwoman had this to say:

"I enjoy Jim Balent's artwork only when it's applied to the Catwoman comics. Namely, I like the way he makes her face so expressive, no matter what she's doing, whether it be thinking, sassing, kissing, or being pissed off. Although I do enjoy the way he depicts her body, I know it does have a lot to do with the fact that Catwoman is usually fully clothed, because I don't appreciate the other work he has done where boobs are hanging out all over the place.

I've always enjoyed the character Catwoman, and for me, the only one who really captured the raw sensuality of Selina is Jim Balent, which is why he is the only artist I collect when it comes to Catwoman comics. He made her sexy without being slutty (which, I really can't say for most of his other work), and really allowed her to come alive on the page. I think it's some of his best work, personally.

But you know, it could all be just due to the fact that I am a lesbian and I like women's bodies. But then again, I'm not a big fan of slutty art, so... that blows that theory out the window. However, no matter how I feel personally about how Jim draws his other comics, I wouldn't hate the guy for drawing boobs and butts. It takes more than a nipple to get me offended and up in arms about women's rights. Hope that answered your question!"

So Bryan, I hope that clears things up for you a bit.


Comments:
But have you seen how many little girls are into manga? I'm bettin' they grow up and expand into American comics too. But with SIP ending... damnit I better start writing.
 
This is true. We can only hope. I think Manga tends to be more girl friendly, in that women like "pretty" art and a lot of manga offers that.

Yeah, get ON that, Erin! I want the great american comic book by Christmas!
 
Why don't you try writing one? nothing ventured, and all that.
We know you have talent. My guess would be..you'd do a good job.
mom
 
I've tried writing some in the past, like that one with Gina. But I'm more of an idea person. I let the professionals flesh it out. :D

That's what Ben is for.
 
Well said. I feel very strongly about Friends of Lulu and their cause. The whole industry benefits from getting more women involved at all levels -- publishing, editorial, creative, retail, the readership.

I've always been very intentional about how I portray female characters in my comics, and to break from the tired stereotypes. Melissa has been a good editor for me with "keeping it real."
 
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