First a word about my students. They are knocking it out of the park, every one of them. This is a group of undergrads who claim to have never created a comic before this class, the vast majority of them claim to not have drawn since about fourth grade, and most of them had never even read a graphic novel before this class. Each is exhibiting their own unique visual and storytelling style. They are working hard and it shows. They are amazing themselves, each other, and me.
This week we will be discussing Jeffrey Brown’s memoir Matter of Life.
This discussion will be followed by a drawing exercise Jeffrey himself created for his comics class at the School of the Art Institute, and a few others. Then more. Lots of drawing and writing. It’s what we do. Then we’ll discuss their upcoming book reports. I’ll stumble into class tonight carrying a bin filled with a variety of graphic memoirs. Students will choose a book that resonates with them which they will read and present to the class after spring break.