Comics Graphic Novels and Manga I and II - NONCREDIT - Arts and Science

Please note that in this class, Robin will be teaching all sections together and the total maximum number of students is 10. We will adjust the section maximums based on demand. If the section you want is full and the total maximum of 10 is not yet reached, please contact us.

Comics, Graphic Novels and Manga I

Instructor: Robin Adair
Wednesdays 6:30-9:30pm
10 weeks: January 12 to March 16
Location: Online
$375 (supplies not included)
Prerequisite: None

In this ten week class for ages 12 and up, students will learn the different elements of creating and illustrating a comic or graphic novel using a wide variety of materials. Narrative, page layout, timing, and sequences, character generation, composition and body language will be explored.

Syllabus

Intro to the tools and terminology of the course
Collaborative mini-comic
Gesture drawing
Drawing a face in the manga style
Cartoon self-portrait
How to build a drawing: from initial sketch to final inking
Intro to panel transitions
Intro to developing a comic page
8 panel stick person story
Techniques in figure drawing
Using ink and brush and the stylus pen
One and two-point perspective
Painting scenery using photo reference
Building a splash page
Intro to the character sheet
Using photo reference and developing a personal style
Hybrid creature character
Developing story arcs
Intro to storyboards
Writing a comics script
Page design and layout
Formatting and printing an original comics page

Supplies

*All of the supplies on this list can be found at Hues Art Supplies in Saskatoon.

Ink supplies:

Set of 4 black calligraphy (chisel tip) pens.
3 black Micron pens (0.5 and 0.8 are the best tip sizes for our purposes).
Set of Speedball nib pens with assorted tips.
Jar of black waterproof ink.
Bamboo brush.

Drawing tools:

Graphite pencils: 2H; 2B; 4B; 8B (I recommend the Staedtler brand).
Blending sticks.
Kneaded eraser.
White eraser.
Set of 12 Prismacolor pencil crayons.
12” metal ruler with cork backing.

Paper:

Pad of 11x17 Bristol Board. Hues sells the Canson Comic Strip pads.
Pad of Drawing paper (9x12 or larger).

Optional Supplies:

*Items on the following list may be of interest to students, but they are not necessary for this course.

Black brush pen with refillable cartridges. Either the Pentel Pocket or the Kuratake are excellent brands.
Set of Copic brand markers.
Set of watercolours. Good brands are Windsor Newton, Reeves, Yarka, and Daniel Smith.
Watercolour brushes (assorted tips and sizes).
Jar of white waterproof ink.

Comics, Graphic Novels and Manga II

Instructor: Robin Adair
Wednesdays 6:30-9:30pm
10 weeks: January 12 to March 16
Location: Online
$375 (supplies not included)
Prerequisite: Comics, Graphic Novels and Manga I or equivalent experience

This course is designed for artists who have completed Comics, Graphic Novels and Manga I, or any of the other entry level courses in the Community Arts and Artisanship Program. The first section of the course will be devoted to reviewing techniques for developing narratives arcs and character designs, including figure drawing, perspective drawing, storyboarding, character sketches, and comic page layouts. In the second half of the course, students will be given an opportunity to conceive and develop individual projects that showcase unique applications of their chosen mediums and techniques. Projects ideas will vary widely depending on the student. Some examples might include: a mini comic; a series of works that explores a particular theme or medium; a handmade book or portfolio for displaying concept art; a series of comic covers or splash pages. Throughout the course, students will be strongly encouraged to develop individual styles and modes of expression in a safe and supportive creative environment.