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Traditional Or Digital Comics Illustration? An Interview With Maitre Show

There has always been a huge debate amongst comic book creators when it comes to the way comic book art should be created. Many swear by traditional methods alone (use of paper, pencil and colours by hand), arguing that it is the only way one can see the authenticity in the craft of talented artists. On the other hand, creators who venerate digital illustration tools like graphic tablets insist on the fact that these tools help enhance their work and provide better results for different kinds of consumers. So, the debate around traditional or digital illustration tools remains a hot topic within the comic book creation community.

Well, this blogpost seeks to provide a direction or a resolution to this heated topic. In that light, the best way to do so will be to get the advice of an experienced and highly talented artist who has done illustrations for comics with traditional and digital tools. We therefore caught up with Mbozo’o Bertrand Zeh AKA Showbizz to find out what he thinks about this topic. Mbozo’o Bertrand Zeh or Showbiz is an artist who hails from Cameroon and he specialises in illustrations of all kinds (comic book illustration inclusive). This is what he had to say.

Zebra Comics Blog: Hello.Thank you for creating the time to answer our questions. Before we get your point of view on the main topic of discussion, we would like to know; Who is Showbizz?

Showbiz: Showbiz or Mbozo’o Bertrand Zeh is a Cameroonian professional artist who hails from the South Region of Cameroon, specifically from the Bulu tribe. As early as the age of three, I began exhibiting skills in drawing and illustration and I continued to hone my skills thanks to my late mother who encouraged me to keep drawing. After my studies in primary school, secondary school and at the university, I decided to become a professional illustrator. I have published comics before and I continue to work to grow the sector. Since 2020, I have been working for Zebra Comics PLC where I currently occupy the position of Artistic Director.

Zebra Comics Blog: When did your comic book journey start and what have you published so far?

Showbiz: Well, I haven’t published much yet. Note that it is only very recently that I got into comics in a big way. Also, it is not very long since I started working as a comic book artist/illustrator, so I haven’t published much. Nevertheless, I have been able to publish some comics. My first publication was in a collection published by New Era Publishers, also known as “Afro Shonen.” I got to do illustrations for four stories in this collection which was published in 2015. Unfortunately, only one volume was released. Then, in 2019, I published “MULEMA” with the startup, Legend Arts. Apart from these, I have been working on several comic book projects for Zebra Comics PLC, notably KUSH, CITY BLUES and RETROGRADE. Concurrently, I am working as an illustrator on a graphic novel to be published by Editions Dupuis. So, this is my comic book creation journey so far.

Zebra Comics Blog: What are you working on now?

Showbiz: Currently, I am working on volume 2 of the original Comic book IP from Zebra Comics PLC called CITY BLUES. Each volume of this comic book comprises five episodes. The first volume is already done and so I am currently working on the second volume. It is a great one for fans of romance comics. Comics fans should check it out on the Zebra Comics App and website. They will not be disappointed.

Zebra Comics Blog: Now, let us get to the bone of contention. What do you prefer to work with: paper and pencil or graphic tablet?

Showbiz: Well, this is a delicate and complicated question to answer because it requires a lot of explanation to be able to show which of these tools I prefer. Each of these them have their methods of use which lead to unique outcomes. For works which are very personal and where I expect a natural look in the final illustrations, I will prefer to use traditional tools. This is because I feel that with traditional tools, I can best display my art and express what I want through my illustrations. With traditional tools, I do not have many constraints which hinder me from expressing myself fully and so the results are usually very close to what I imagine in my mind. Also, I use traditional tools on personal projects, and when I have enough time to invest in them. So, traditional tools are good for producing natural and very beautiful illustrations, but they require huge investment of time. On the other hand, digital tools help in doing repetitive tasks and large quantities of work in limited time. They work well in industrial settings where large quantities of illustrations have to be done on a daily basis (like what happens at Zebra Comics PLC). So, as far as production and speed are concerned, I prefer to use digital illustration tools. But for personal projects which necessitate a great level of artistic investment and time, I will go for traditional tools.

Zebra Comics Blog: What are the advantages and disadvantages of these traditional and digital tools?

Showbiz: Well, let’s start with the use of traditional tools. Firstly, the use of traditional tools is time consuming and therefore makes work go slower. It takes time to do hand-drawn illustrations on paper. Secondly, with traditional tools, it is difficult to do large quantities of illustrations in a short time. This is because it is not possible to be repetitive or to reproduce illustrations automatically. So, traditional tools do not work well in industrial settings. On the other hand, as far as the advantages of traditional tools are concerned, they help portray the works of the artist in the best possible way. The end products of illustrations done with traditional tools are much more natural and so provide a visual appeal that is difficult to provide with digital tools. It brings out what the artist actually feels and so portrays the very basis of the etymology of art.

As far as digital tools are concerned, the first disadvantage is that they do not permit the artist to reduce the margin of error as they do with traditional tools. Digital tools render illustrations artificial, which are usually appealing, but do not provide the same level of visual appeal as traditional tools. Sometimes, no matter how you try, you may not be able to draw a curve the way you want with digital tools and so you end up with a particular way in which illustrations look, which is not always very appealing. On the other hand, digital tools are very advantageous when it comes to massive production of illustrations. In industrial settings (digital comics companies and animation projects) digital tools help produce large amounts of illustrations with impressive accuracy. Also, digital illustrations can sustain great visual appeal especially when they are consumed digitally within applications on smartphones, tablets and PCs. These tools are particularly appreciated in this era, given that many people are now great consumers of the tech on which digital illustrations are best consumed.

Zebra Comics Blog: Any last advice for aspiring illustrators out there?

ShowBiz: To every aspiring artist, illustrator and author of comics, I will say that, irrespective of their preference for traditional or digital illustration tools, they should make sure that they are trained in the use of digital illustration tools. This is because we now live in the digital era where a high percentage of comics are consumed digitally. Going into the future, this trend will increase, making the use of digital illustration tools indispensable for aspiring artists, illustrators or authors of comics. More so, if any of these aspiring artists intend to work as illustrators or graphic designers in any company in the world today, they are obliged to master the use of digital tools in their work because that is what is used in those domains to ensure speed and accuracy. However, for the very young ones who are just starting out in art and illustration, the use of traditional tools is recommended. This is because traditional illustration provides the base and foundation for every young artist. Digital tools just provide shortcuts. For anyone to know that they are using a shortcut, they have to first of all know the main route. Traditional tools will help young artists grasp the fundamentals of art and illustration before they venture into using digital tools to make work easy. To crown it all, practice as much as possible, hone your craft and you will become a great illustrator sooner than expected.

So, ShowBiz has spoken, and his points were pretty clear. What do you think about his arguments? Share your thoughts in the comments section. You can follow ShowBiz and see his works on his Facebook Page.

February 27, 2023
Humorous Comics From Africa

Comics, as you may certainly know, are a very popular form of entertainment. From superhero to non-fiction, comics cover a variety of genres and they do so effectively because they tell stories through images. Most of the time, however, comics focus on genres like superhero, fantasy, science fiction, horror and slice of life. This leaves little space for other interesting categories that have as much entertainment and educational value as the aforementioned. One of these categories which is very important is Humor. Humor can be defined as the quality of being amusing or comic, especially as expressed in literature or speech. In other words, anything that is funny, can make people laugh and is present in literature or speech is humor.

In a previous article (add link to our first article on funny comics), we explored humor comics from the major markets (North America, Europe and Asia) and its benefits to readers. The article explores the different types of humorous comics from thee markets and gives some interesting examples that you can check out. This article, therefore, will focus on humorous comics from Africa. That said, it is worth noting that from across Africa, there are many talented cartoonists and illustrators creating humorous stories that will delight any reader. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the funniest comics from Africa and why they make great reading material.

Funny African Comics have been around for quite a while. In their early days, they were first published in newspapers across Africa. Since then they’ve become increasingly popular with readers all over the continent who appreciate their humorous take on everyday life as well as their colorful art style. These comics are interspersed with a variety of genres including adventure, science fiction, fantasy and more – giving readers plenty of options to choose from no matter what type of story they’re looking for.

Funny comics are actually in great numbers on the African continent. Most of the stories in these comics are used to give comic relief and serve as satire to the difficult economic and social situations that usually plague African societies. At the same time, these comics serve as a uniting force, a converging point where African readers, most especially, can feel a sense of belonging to their dear continent through the characters portrayed in these comics.

There exist several quality humorous comics from the mother continent that will keep you laughing as you go through their pages. Some great examples include; Djo’o Bar by Hughes Bertrand Biboum, Mebenga Essamba by Raimi Sewado, Laff Lafrikain by Gunther Moss, Hero Kekere by Comic Republic, SRS Academy from Brown Roof Studios, YAO VISA REFUSÉ by Didier Viodé, MOTO-TAXI À BÉCANE AU BÉNIN by Hodall Béo, LE RETOUR AU PAYS D’ALPHONSE MADIBA DIT DAUDET by Al’Mata and Edimo, VIVE LA CORRUPTION by Didier Viodé, LES EXPLORATEURS by Hertzy Vital Ole Tsimi, Zog Et Mob by Patrice Mballa Asse and TUMBU by E.N. Ejob.

These stories explore themes which range from family life, politics, poverty, corruption, love and politics to sexuality and mental health. More than any other genre, Humorous comics have a way of passing across messages about life’s realities such that they sink deep. And it is particularly interesting to see that there are a ton of humorous comics that emanate from the African continent. Maybe it is a sign that Africans need to laugh and rejoice more than walloping in the hardships that plague daily life.

February 21, 2023
Print Comics VS Digital Comics: Which Is Better?
Have you ever wondered if digital comics, webcomics and even webtoons are as valuable as comics in print? Well, out of the box, many would argue that the very terms “digital comics” and “webcomics” all have the word “comics” included in them, and so by default, they should all be considered as comics. At the same time, however, there are many who swear by the fact that digital comics cannot be put on the same pedestal as printed comics. To them, digital comics are not tangible and cannot be felt like print comics and so should be regarded with less value. Well, others will also argue that even though digital comics, like other digital products, are intangible and are usually sold and delivered digitally, they remain products with economic value and so should be given as much importance as tangible comic books. If this conclusion seems incomplete to you, then maybe we should go back and look at what comics or comic books really are.

What are Comics or Comic Books?
Comics is a medium used to express ideas with images, often combined with text or other visual information. It typically takes the form of a sequence of panels of images. Textual devices such as speech balloons, captions, and onomatopoeia can indicate dialogue, narration, sound effects, or other information. At the same time, the Oxford English Dictionary defines a Comic book as a magazine that presents a serialised story in the form of a comic strip, typically featuring the adventures of a superhero. The Collins Dictionary, on its part, defines a comic book as a magazine that contains stories told in pictures. From these, we see an emphasis being laid on sequential images, dialogue in speech bubbles and narration or captions. None of these definitions focus on the format in which these sequences of images accompanied by dialogue and narration are delivered. If there is a mention of comics being a magazine, this does not mean that comics should be delivered in print only as there are print and digital versions of books and magazines.

In the end, and judging from the above, the issue between print and digital comics should not be at the level of “which is more valuable than which.” Any comic in print or digital format will tell the same story with the same characters and settings. In that light, choosing between digital and print comics comes down to personal preferences. Every comic book fan should be able to choose the format which works best with him or her, and this boils down to the pros and cons of each of these formats. So, which format presents the most advantages and the least disadvantages? Let us find out.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Print comics
Print comics, given the evolution of technology, have been around the longest. In principle, many comic book lovers who were born before the late 90s knew printed comics as the main format for comics. This is because this group of people grew up reading comics when there were no smartphones and the internet was just a fancy word. Nevertheless, the question remains: what are the advantages of print comics? Let’s explore below.

They are easy to read. Print comics are produced with certain formats in mind. These formats are decided upon based on how well readers can see and effortlessly consume the content on the usually glossy pages. Print makes it possible to provide the comic book content in various sizes, providing a variety of options to readers which will therefore make their reading experiences very comfortable
Usually, comic book lovers carry their print comics around like trophies or prizes. They like to show off their copies of the latest edition of a series whose copies are limited in supply. This gives value to the comic book and to the reader alike.
Beautiful artwork by talented comic book artists and authors are usually best appreciated in print. Sometimes, these artworks can be printed and fans can actually buy them and continue to see their favourite characters live outside the pages of their comic books.
With print comics, fans can get autographed copies from their favourite authors and creators. Even though authors can provide digital versions of their autographed work, they are less valuable compared to those they provide in person directly on printed comics.
Possibility of collecting comics. Many comic book fans are collectors who buy comics on a regular basis and store them in physical libraries for long periods of time. After some time, these comics, especially limited edition copies, become very valuable and can be sold for amounts that can be several dozens of times higher than their initial price.

These are some of the advantages of print comics. However, there also exist some disadvantages. They are as follows:

Print comics are not available everywhere all the time. There is only a particular amount of comic books that any publisher can print and distribute. This means that some comic book lovers in some parts of the world will be left out because these publishers cannot afford to get them there. This also means that it may be difficult to get certain episodes of an ongoing series, making it a hurdle to follow up.Usually, comic book lovers carry their print comics around like trophies or prizes. They like to show off their copies of the latest edition of a series whose copies are limited in supply. This gives value to the comic book and to the reader alike.
Since print comics are made with paper, they can easily degrade. More so, incidents like fire outbreaks or leakages can damage these comics. And once they are destroyed, they are gone forever.With print comics, fans can get autographed copies from their favourite authors and creators. Even though authors can provide digital versions of their autographed work, they are less valuable compared to those they provide in person directly on printed comics.
With print comics, there is only a limited amount of books that any comic book fan can keep. Unless you own library space as large as that of The Library of Congress, there is a high chance that you will not have the space to store all the comics that you want.
Generally, print comics are expensive. Single monthly issues and graphic novels can cost anywhere from 5 US dollars right up to 100 US dollars. This is quite expensive considering the number of pages the buyers get and the number of copies they may have to buy the comic to go through the story in the comic book.
Print comics can easily be stolen. Once stolen it is very difficult to trace them and get them back.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Digital Comics
Digital comics, unlike print, came into play many years after the golden age of comics. Technological advancements like the internet and the proliferation of computers, tablets and smartphones occasioned the rise of this format. However, it is important to actually point out its advantages, so as to see why it is as important as print comics.

Digital comics can be accessed anywhere in the world. So long as you have access to the internet and a compatible device, you can buy, download and consume digital comics wherever you are.
Digital comics are generally cheaper. With the proliferation of digital comics platforms and the fact that these digital comics companies do not need to invest in printing and distribution, prices for these comics have dropped drastically. Some platforms even provide low subscription fees which provide access to a wide variety of titles, while others offer these comics for free.
With digital comics, fans can store large quantities of comics in their virtual libraries. With developments in cloud based computing, it is possible to store as many comics as possible without worrying about storage.
Digital comics makes it possible to discover new comics and creators that you wouldn’t discover if you had to buy single issues of each of these comics. Digital platforms like Zebra Comics provide users with fresh and new comics that come from areas of the African continent that many would not have known about.
With digital, Comics fans can communicate with their creators and with fellow comic book fans directly. On platforms like Webtoon, fans can share their feelings about a particular comic issue after reading it and the creators can respond directly, creating a very intimate relationship between creators and their fans.

Digital comics sure have its advantages and these make it stand out very clearly. On the other hand, however, there exist some setbacks which can dissuade many from adopting this format when consuming comics. They include;

To consume digital comics, fans need an internet connection to be able to access and download the content. This means that even if you have the means to pay for the content, you will not be able to get it and consume it if you do not have access to the internet.
Usually, the enjoyability of digital comics depends heavily on the device the comic book consumer is using. If the device’ screen is too small, not bright enough or the device does not possess the right software or applications to view the comics, consuming them can be impossible.
Once you buy a digital comic, you cannot resell it. Worse still, if you subscribe to a digital comics service, you cannot move the content out of the platform. So, you are limited in what you can do with your digital comics.
Power failures and complete lack of energy can hamper the consumption of digital comics. If you cannot turn on your device, there is no way to consume your digital comics.
Users can easily be exposed to content that they would normally not want to consume. There is just so much on the internet in terms of digital comics and sometimes, it is hard to detect what is good and what is ugly.

Conclusion
The domain of comics is very popular, which is why it is part of what is called “pop culture.” Taking this into consideration, it is clear that the sector will only continue to evolve. It started with print comics and today we have digital comics which have further developed into other formats like webtoon. Whether people read their comics in print or digital formats is totally up to them. The above clearly shows that each of them come with their advantages and disadvantages. They both have value and can be fully enjoyed, depending on how you like to consume them.
February 21, 2023
The Growth Of The Webtoon Market In Africa

Introduction:
Webtoon, a digital comic format originating from South Korea, has gained significant popularity globally in recent years. It is characterized by its vertical scroll format, which allows for a seamless and immersive reading experience. Since its inception in the early 2000s with the debut of Naver Webtoon, the webtoon industry has rapidly evolved, and it has been a game-changer in the comic book industry. Webtoons have risen in popularity over the years, with many webtoon artists achieving commercial success. Webtoons are now a global phenomenon, with millions of readers worldwide. This article explores the growth of the African webtoon market, the rise of African comics, and the reasons for the surge in popularity.

The Rise of Comic Books in Africa:
For decades, comic books have been a form of entertainment in Africa, and they have been embraced by people of all ages. The popularity of comic books in Africa has grown dramatically in recent years. The African comic book industry has grown tremendously, with publishers such as Kugali Media, Etan Comics, Zebra Comics, Comic Republic, Waanda Stoudio, YouNeek Studios, Editions Akoma Mba, Spoof Comics, Harmattan BD, and many others. Traditional comic books have always been the preferred format, but webtoons have recently gained popularity, attracting a large number of new readers. Webtoons, on the other hand, are growing increasingly popular on the continent, thanks to digital comics apps like Zebra Comics and Raptures that make it easier for fans to access and consume African webtoons.

Reasons for the Growth of Webtoons in Africa: The tremendous growth of webtoons in Africa can be attributed to three major factors. To begin with, webtoons provide a more immersive reading experience than traditional comic books. The vertical scroll format offers a continuous flow that enhances the story, while the incorporation of sound and animation enhances the reading experience.

Second, webtoons are more widely available and more affordable than traditional comics. Most webtoons are free or charge a modest price, and viewers can read them on their mobile devices. This ease of access has allowed more individuals to appreciate comics, especially in locations where traditional comic books are not available.

Finally, webtoons provide an outlet for African creators to tell their stories. The African continent is rich in culture and has many untold stories. Webtoons allow African creators to share their stories with a larger audience. This has drawn western fans seeking new original stories and willing to explore other cultures.

For readers looking to explore African comics, it is as easy as typing “African comics” on Google Play or the App Store. There are various digital comic book apps, including webtoons, that offer a diverse selection of African stories. These apps include a wide range of genres, including action, adventure, romance, and more. African webtoons have something for everyone and are a welcome variation from the typical comic book themes. The African continent is brimming with hidden stories just waiting to be unraveled by readers all around the world.

The webtoon market has experienced rapid growth globally, and Africa is not left behind. The growth of the webtoon market in Africa is driven by its immersive reading experience, affordability, and ability to give African creators a platform to share their stories. The growth of the webtoon market in Africa is set to continue as more creators and comic book lovers embrace the format. African webtoons have come to stay, and they offer a unique reading experience that is sure to delight readers of all ages.

February 20, 2023
Are ‘Funny’ Comics A Thing?

Comics have been a beloved form of entertainment for generations, and funny comics are no exception. Actually, the word comics is derived from Comic Books which owes its appellation to the early years of comic strips which were mostly done to incite humour. These strips, like Mickey Mouse, were ‘comic’ or ‘funny’ and therefore clearly suggests that humour has always been part of comics. Nevertheless, whether it’s the classic comic strips found in newspapers or modern webcomics that can be read online, these humorous stories provide readers with an escape from their everyday lives. But what is it about funny comics that make them so popular?

At its core, humour is all about finding joy in life’s little moments. Humour helps in being calm, lifting spirits and maintaining great mental health. Funny comics tap into this idea by taking mundane situations and turning them into something comical or absurd. This allows readers to take a break from reality while still being able to relate to the characters on some level – making the experience especially enjoyable for those who appreciate cleverly written jokes and witty dialogue.

Funny comics also offer something unique compared to other genres within the medium: they often feature lighthearted storylines without having any serious consequences attached like you might find when reading superhero stories or horror titles. This makes them great reads for people who simply want some good-natured laughs rather than intense action sequences or suspenseful cliffhangers!

As far as American comics are concerned, funny comics have always been present and have entertained fans for as long as the artform has existed. Good examples include “Deadpool” from Marvel Comics, “Bone” by Jeff Smith, “Megahex” by Hanselmann, “Dicks” by Ennis and McCrea, “Quantum And Woody” by Christopher Priest and is illustrated by M. D. Bright, “Superman’s Pal Jimmy Olsen: Who Killed Jimmy Olsen?” by DC Comics and “Rick and Morty” by Zac Gorman. All these titles present a humorous take on their plotlines and characters.

European comic strips such as “The Adventures of Tintin” by Hergé and “Asterix the Gaul” by René Goscinny are timeless classics that continue to delight readers with their humorous storylines and characters. These iconic stories often feature humorous elements such as puns or slapstick physical comedy which keep readers entertained throughout each instalment of the story arc.

Manga is another great source for finding funny comics these days; many popular manga series offer lighthearted tales full of humorous moments alongside more serious plotlines or themes. Series like “One Piece” by Eiichiro Oda, “Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku” by Fujita, “My Roommate is a Cat” by Minatsuki and Asu Futatsuya, “My Hero Academia” by Kohei Horikoshi and “Mashle: Magic and Muscles” by Hajime Komoto provide comedic relief amidst intense action scenes while still managing to tell compelling stories about their protagonists’ journeys towards self-improvement and growth over time

In addition to traditional paper publications, digital platforms like Webtoons have become increasingly popular sources for discovering new humorous titles from all around the world. Whether you prefer classic European style cartoons or contemporary Japanese Manga – there’s something sure to tickle your fancy among this vast selection of hilarious content creators who specialise in making us smile through our screens! Good examples of humorous webtoons include Stalker x Stalker, Boyfriend Of The Dead, Blue Chair, Everywhere And Nowhere and Sarah’s Scribbles.

In terms of sales numbers, funny comic books tend not to rank as high as more mainstream genres such as superheroes and fantasy/sci-fi mostly because they’re seen as niche products; however there are still plenty of fans out there who enjoy collecting these kinds of titles – whether it’s old newspaper funnies reprinted in collected editions (such as The Far Side) or new independent works created specifically for digital platforms (like Cyanide & Happiness). Furthermore many publishers now recognize how important humour can be when creating successful series – which has resulted in numerous comedic properties becoming household names over time, like Calvin & Hobbes.

Funny comics play an important role in keeping up our spirits during difficult times. Laughter, truly, is one way we can stay connected even when we’re apart physically due its ability to unite us emotionally through shared experiences no matter where we come from. All things considered, though they may never reach blockbuster status like Marvel movies do at theatres each year; humorous comic books will always remain a vital part of our collective pop culture landscape thanks largely to their ability to bring us together through laughter! So, if you’re looking for a good pick-me-up after a hard day at work – why not try out some fun comic books? You won’t regret it!

February 16, 2023
Where To Start If You’re New To African Comics

African comics are a rich and diverse genre that’s gaining popularity worldwide. With so many comic book publishers entering the market, it can be challenging to figure out where to start. To help you navigate the world of African comics, here are some of the best publishers to check out:

Zebra Comics
Zebra Comics, founded by Ejob Nathanael, is a Cameroon-based publisher of African comics known for promoting African culture through storytelling. From action to romance, they offer a diverse range of comics that showcase culturally rich characters and authentic African societies as well as Afrofuturism. You can find their digital comics on their mobile app and website. To get started, we recommend Kawana, Anaki, Mancraft, Damo, Retrograde, and Wrongdial.

YouNeek Studios
YouNeek Studios is a Nigerian comic book publisher founded by Roye Okupe that features culturally rich heroes. Their comics offer a unique take on the genre, making them a great choice for those looking for something different. Explore Malika: The Warrior Queen, E.X.O.: The Legend of Wale Williams, Iyanu: Child of Wonder, and The Oloris: Heroes Will Unite Volume 1.

Comic Republic
Comic Republic, founded by Jide Martin, is a Nigerian publisher that offers a unique blend of African and Western elements in their comics. They are known for their captivating storytelling, high-end comic art, and vibrant colours. Start with Aje, Scion Immortal, Might of Guardian Prime, Ireti Bidemi, Hero Kekere, Eru, Amadioha, and more.

Waanda Stoudio
Waanda Studio, based in Cameroon, showcases stories inspired by African folklore, history, and mythology. Headed by Yannick Deubou Sikoué, with Paterson Sikoué by his side, they offer both digital and print comics for African readers, and readers across the world as well. They also offer a wide range of services that revolve around animation and graphic design. Get started with Android Night, Caty, and Ekiee.

Raptures
Raptures is a digital storytelling platform and studio network that creates webtoons, comics, and animations centered around African, Black American, and Arab origin stories. With a wide range of content for all ages, you can explore their comics on their online platforms or mobile app.

Spoof Comics
Spoof Comics is a Nigerian publisher founded by Ayodele Elegba that offers high-quality African comics. From relatable characters to culturally rich stories, they offer both entertainment and cultural significance. Start with Boxsa, Vantage, Jinx, and Voyager: Space Adventure.

Kugali Media
Kugali Media is an entertainment company that tells stories inspired by African culture through comics, art, and augmented reality. Kugali Media was founded by Ziki Nelson along with Tolu Olowofoyeku and Macaulay Alvarez. Their stories blend African cultures, resulting in new and exciting genres of African comics. You can read some of their content for free on their website. We recommend Nani, Lake of Tears, and Razorman.

These are just a few of the many African comic book publishers available. Whether you’re a fan of superheroes, myths, and legends, or just looking for something different, there’s an African comic book publisher that’s right for you. Start your journey today and explore the exciting world of African comics.

February 10, 2023
Where To Start If You Are New To Comics

So, you are new to comics and you are looking for where to start. Well, you have probably heard a ton about comic books, seen them displayed in bookstores and even watched one or two superhero characters on screen, but have never really cared to find out what is in those books with illustrations and speech bubbles. Well, if you are interested now, let’s start by saying, congratulations. You are definitely making the right decision to get into this world that has so much to offer. However, for any newbie to the world of comics, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out where to start. In print and online there are an uncountable number of comics to choose from, making it a herculean task to figure out a starting point. Luckily, there are a variety of options for anyone who is just getting into reading comics and you can always go by whatever route you want. But first, it is important to clearly define what comics or comic books are so that newbies like you can easily understand what we are talking about.

What are Comics?

Comics are visual stories told through text and images that have been around since the 19th century and were popularized in newspapers during the 1930s–1950s period known as “The Golden Age of Comics”. Today they come in all shapes and sizes from monthly ongoing series published by major publishers like Marvel Comics or DC Comics; manga (Japanese style) or Franco Belge BD (Belgian/French); digital formats such as webtoons; independent titles created by small presses or self-published creators; even anthologies put together with contributions from various authors around the world! There really is something out there for everyone, no matter what genre interests them—fantasy, science fiction, romance, horror—the list goes on!

The variety and propositions are vast. For you newbies, this can be really fun, to dive into a world that is so rich and diverse as this. However, the question still remains; where do you begin as a novice?

Marvel Comics and DC Comics

Well, any regular consumer of comics will have a few names to mention when it comes to picking which comics to start reading. The major publishers, in this light, will be companies such as Marvel Comics and DC Comics who offer an extensive library full of characters with decades worth of content ranging from classic tales featuring iconic heroes like Spiderman & Batman all the way up to modern day stories exploring new ideas within these universes . These companies also provide readers access points through events in which they bring multiple storylines together under one umbrella allowing newcomers an easy path towards understanding complicated plotlines while still being able to enjoy individual arcs without feeling overwhelmed.

Manga and Franco Belge BD
Besides the big two, we have Manga and Franco Belge BD. Manga, which originates from Japan, has become increasingly popular worldwide due to its unique art style and storytelling methods, which often focus on character development rather than just action sequences, making them great starting points for those looking for something different than traditional superhero fare. Great manga you can start reading today include the Dragon Ball series, the Naruto series, the One Piece series, and the Attack on Titan series. Additionally, Franco Belge BD offers readers another avenue towards discovering European-influenced works featuring captivating artwork along with intricate plots dealing with social issues relevant to today’s societies. Notable examples of Franco- Belgian comics include The Adventures of Tin Tin, Asterix and Obelix and Lucky Luke, amongst a ton of others.

Webcomics and Webtoons

Digital platforms have opened up opportunities and they aren’t only providing easier access but also creating entirely new subgenres within comics such as Webtoon, which focuses primarily on vertical scrolling panels, allowing storytellers more freedom when constructing their narratives compared to conventional page layouts found in print editions. Not only do these platforms make it easier for comic book lovers to find the comics they want to read at any time on their smartphones, tablets, and PCs, they also provide a deeply dense catalogue of comics that are updated on a regular basis. Platforms like Marvel Unlimited with the infinity comics model provides newbies with a huge catalogue of Marvel comics at very affordable costs. Same goes for platforms like Webtoon, Comixology, BiliBili Comics, Tappytoon and a host of many others. These platforms provide a blinding well of diversity to fans and newcomers alike and expose them to the most popular digital comics format: webtoon.

African Comics: The New Frontier

The comic book market has grown tremendously over the years. From the above, it is clear that there has been a lot going on in this sector. This, however, has not stopped the sector from growing continuously. One destination where newbies can find exciting comics is Africa. For a long time, Africa had been lagging behind in the production and commercialization of comics. Even though companies like Marvel Comics published stories based on African cultures like Black Panther, it was only in the late 2000s that comics really took root in Africa. Today there are quite a good number of creators and publishers who are putting out unique comics based on African cultures, traditions, and contemporary realities. These comics deviate in deep ways from the conventional tropes one will find in western comics, thereby bringing something new to the market. Notable publishers are Zebra Comics PLC, Comic Republic, Etan Comics, Editions Akoma Mba and Harmattan BD. These houses host creators like EN Ejob, Roye Okupe, Loyiso Mkize, Ejob Gaius, Jide Martin, Ayodele Elegba, Franklin Agogho, Georges Pondy, Elyon’s, Njoka Suyru, Reine Dibussi and many others who have put out great African comics and webtoons like Anaki, Iyanu: child of wonder, Kwezi, Mancraft, Eru, Boxsa, Totem, CATY, La Vie D’Ebene Duta, Khadija and Mulatako. These comics are available in print and digital formats.

From the above, it is clear that there is a wide variety of comics on the market for everyone. For newbies, looking for a starting point will just depend on tastes, purchasing power and accessibility. In fact you can start anywhere because there is just an unending well of comics, manga and webtoon available to anybody who is starting out.

February 9, 2023
How African Comics Deviate From The Classical Superhero Trope

African Comics: Origins.

Many African youths used to rush to local book vendors to get the latest Superman or Batman comic books several years ago. Some would wake up early on Saturdays to watch Spiderman defy the laws of Physics on Television. As these fellows tore through calendars their love for these characters grew stronger. This sparked their desire to create lovable and memorable characters and comic books of their own. But with a new spice.

African comic books have come a long way from just being inspired by Western superheroes. In the past, African comic book creators read comics about superheroes from the West, fell in love with these characters and created almost copycat versions of them. However, in time, their creativity and imagination went beyond that and led to the current boom in the African comic book industry.

African Comics: A Unique Take on the Superhero Genre

African comic book creators, inspired by Western characters, have started creating their own unique comic book characters. But they do not solely focus on the traditional superhero trope that has become so common in the comic book market. Instead, they are bringing a fresh perspective and new ideas to the world of comics. African comics tackle societal issues and cultural differences, providing a voice for underrepresented African communities. They often incorporate African mythology, history, and beliefs, creating stories that are not only entertaining but also culturally significant. It is a massive turn from the cliched self-righteous indestructible all-powerful hero in spandex with a mask and cape.

By some accident of “science”, the protagonist acquired powers that automatically made him “super”. It became clear to African creators that these superhero tropes weren’t just overused and cliche, they also didn’t fully reflect their experiences and immediate environment. Unlike Peter Parker who got his abilities from a radioactive spider, Tain from the comic book “Mancraft” (published by Zebra Comics PLC) goes through training in an esoteric elite organization where he learns the “Craft” that grants him abilities. We follow the character’s difficult journey as he learns about a world within the physical one. We see the cultural beliefs and customs that accompany Tain on his journey. Another example is Iyanu: Child of Wonder published by YouNeek Studios. Though the story focuses primarily on her self-discovery, it is impossible to ignore the rich Yoruba culture from which she draws inspiration. The Yoruba culture lends the comic book a distinctive look and flavour, which will appeal greatly to global audiences. With the tremendous amount of untapped cultural heritage at their disposal, there is no shortage of inspiration for their comic books. The uniqueness and freshness the world has witnessed with the African music industry is happening with the African comic book as well. And it only gets better from there.

The Importance of African Comics in the Industry

African comics are a reflection of the continent’s rich heritage and a celebration of its rich cultural diversity, making them an important part of the comic book industry. They offer a new twist on the classic superhero genre, presenting heroes that are not only powerful but also culturally rich. African comics showcase the diversity and richness of African culture and bring new perspectives to the comic book industry. Through comic books, African creators can tell their stories with all the authenticity and accuracy they deserve. To the global audience, not only is it entertaining, it is educational. A means for them to know the Mother Land better while smiling through beautiful comic book pages.

You could discover South Africa through the lens of Kwezi by Loyiso Mkize or explore Ethiopia through Jember created by Beserat Debebe and published by Etan Comics. Enter the futuristic African world of Anaki, created by E.N. Ejob and published by Zebra Comics PLC, and why not its spin-off series, Beasts of Tazeti, created by Ejob Gaius and also published by Zebra Comics PLC. Strike Guard, created by Ayodele Elegba and published by Spoof Comics, will give you a first-class ticket to Nigeria. In Wrong Dial, created by Fensou Miles and published by Zebra Comics PLC, you will discover how African magic is used to influence modern warfare. Yes, you read that right!

Other African comics you should check out are: Jakuta by Ayegbusi Tobi, published by Brown Roof Studios; Njoku, created by Njoka Suyru, and published by Zebra Comics PLC; Mulatako, Mulatako created by Reine Dibussi, delves into a world in the seas even Aquaman knows nothing about, Warrior Queen by Roye Okupe and published by Dark Horse Comics and YouNeek Studios (based on west African myths), Chayoma: Curse of the Jangura by Peter Chizoba Daniel and published by Peda Comics, and many more.

The Journey Continues

In conclusion, African comics are a unique take on the superhero genre, offering a fresh perspective on the classic trope. They tackle societal issues, incorporate African mythology, and celebrate the continent’s cultural diversity, making them an important part of the comic book industry. If you are looking for something different and culturally rich, then African comics are definitely worth checking out.

February 6, 2023
Superheroes In African Comics

For a very long time, superheroes have been the definition of what comics actually are. From Marvel Comics to DC Comics and everything in between, most of the comics the world has seen have been based on superheroes. And even though so much has changed as far as comics are concerned, the superhero trope is still very dominant in the comic book industry, making it an important part of storytelling today.

Superheroes have been a staple of the comic book world for decades, and they’ve become an integral part of popular culture. They’re characters that stand up against evil and fight for justice, often with superhuman abilities or gadgets to help them along the way. Superheroes are beloved by many people around the world—not just in comics but also in movies, TV shows, video games, webtoons, manga and more. But who exactly are these superheroes?

Superheroes come from all walks of life: some were born with their powers while others gained them through accidents or scientific experiments gone wrong (or right!). Some use their powers to protect humanity while others may use them selfishly; either way they can be incredibly powerful forces when used correctly! Many superheroes represent morality tales about good versus evil as well as complex stories about identity struggles within our society today.

In recent years there has been a surge in African superhero representation both on-screen and off-screen. From Black Panther to Wakanda Forever!, African cultures have finally started getting much deserved attention from mainstream media outlets like Marvel Comics & Disney+. These new heroes offer unique perspectives on heroism that reflect modern day Africa – one where strength is found not only through physical power but also intelligence & compassion towards those less fortunate than oneself! Additionally, African creators are beginning to invest a lot of time and care in creating African superheroes who not only depict the aforementioned superhero tropes, but who also represent the ideologies and beliefs of the common African.

African comics featuring superhero characters include Malika: Warrior Queen by Roye Okupe which is set during 15th century West Africa which features a female leader fighting for the freedom of her people; Kwezi written by Loyiso Mkize focusing on South African street culture & crime prevention using supernatural elements like magic spells; E.X.O.: The Legend of Wale Williams centering around Nigerian scientist Wale Williams who creates tech inventions he uses against monsters threatening his city Lagos, JEMBER written by Beserat Debebe, a story about the first Ethiopian Superhero, Guardian Prime created by Jide Martin and Wale Awelenje and ANAKI created E.N. Ejob which tells the story of a witch who strives to survive in a futuristic version of Africa – just name a few examples out there today! All these titles provide readers with captivating storylines and full action packed adventures featuring diverse casts of members representing different countries throughout the African continent itself!

Overall, it’s clear why superheroes remain so popular among comic book lovers. No matter what age/background you come from, everyone loves seeing someone fight injustice & make things better, even if it means putting themselves at risk doing so. This is exactly why we need more diverse representations when it comes to creating heroic figures because everyone deserves a chance to experience the joys of being a hero.

February 6, 2023
Mythology In African Comics

In the course of your reading journey, you probably have asked this question, “Why is mythology a predominant theme in African comics, webtoon and manga?” Well, whether you have or not, the question of mythology in comics has come up more times than one can imagine. However, before we venture into the reasons why mythology is such an attractive topic for creators and consumers of comics, it is important to get our definitions straight first.

A mythology is a collection of myths or stories about a specific person, culture, religion, or any group with shared beliefs. Most people don’t consider mythology to be entirely true, but they still take it seriously. Going by this definition and looking at it in relation to African culture and traditions, one can easily see why mythology is a thing in African comics. African cultures are usually very spiritual in nature. Myths usually emanate from African cultures which were predominantly oral in the past. In these oral traditions which were very philosophical in nature, myths were used as a way of passing across ideologies and ways of life in the most effective ways to younger generations. In African folklore, therefore, there are many myths that comics, webtoon and manga creators have turned to for inspiration. Some of them include myths around gods like Shango, animals and even totems.

This world of myths and mythology, however, is not the creation of African culture alone. Myths have existed in all parts of the world since human creation. From Norse mythology, passing through the Aztec myths, to Chinese beliefs, world mythologies have always been part of human beliefs. This, undoubtedly, has influenced the creation of the most popular comics, webtoon and manga we know today. Many superhero characters are the products of inspiration drawn from popular mythologies. Some good examples include Wonder Woman (a superhero inspired by gods from Greek mythology), 18 Days (Based on the Indian epic Mahabharata), THOR (based on the Norse god of thunder), Deadman (based on Hindu Mythology), Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba (based on Japanese mythology) and Shazam (which finds its origins in Greek mythology). These and many more show how much mythology has influenced creation of comics across the world.

As far as African comics are concerned, mythologies have played a great role in shaping the inspiration of creators from the mother continent. Out of the box, the continent boasts of a rich repertoire of mythology which makes for fertile grounds from which to dig out inspiring ideas and characters for truly memorable stories. Some examples of comics based on African mythology and folklore include Malika: Warrior Queen by Roye Okupe and published by Dark Horse Comics and YouNeek Studios (based on west African myths), Amadioha created by Tobe Max Ezeogu and published by Comic Republic, Jember created by Beserat Debebe and published by Etan Comics, Anaki created by E.N. Ejob and published by Zebra Comics PLC, Chayoma: Curse of the Jangura by Peter Chizoba Daniel and published by Peda Comics, Beasts of Tazeti created by Ejob Gaius and published by Zebra Comics PLC, Strike Guard created by Ayodele Elegba and published by Spoof Comics, Wrong Dial created by Fensou Miles and published by Zebra Comics PLC, Jakuta by Ayegbusi Tobi and published by Brown Roof Studios, Aurion: Legacy of the Kori-Odan by Olivier Madiba and Georges Pondy and published by Kiro’o Games, Njoku created by Njoka Suyru and published by Zebra Comics PLC, Mulatako Created by Reine Dibussi and Totem created by Franklin Agogho and published by Zebra Comics PLC. These stories are all based on African mythologies. It is however interesting to note that each of these stories handle myths in peculiar ways. While some use myths to build modern day and even futuristic characters, others base their inspiration on the past and build from there to come up with interesting characters and scenarios.

From the above, it is clear that mythology plays a predominant role in the creation of African comics, webtoon and manga. This helps to adequately pass across African philosophies, cultures and ways of life because these are deeply embedded in myths which are clear representations of African cultures and traditions. The aforementioned comics therefore provide a clear lens through which readers can have a deeper taste of what Africa is, even though myths are not the only pool from which African creators draw inspiration to create their comics.

February 2, 2023

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