ARIA Writing Academy Class: Writing for Comics & Graphic Novels
About this Event
Class Description:
What does it take to write a graphic novel? Is it really all that different from writing a novel, or screenplay?
What do you do if you adore comics, but can’t draw for beans?
What is it like to collaborate with an illustrator on a comic, or graphic novel project?
What about crowdfunding?
This class will address all these questions, and probably more. So, if you’ve ever been curious
about writing a graphic novel, or if you’ve been holding back on your great idea because you think you can’t draw, here’s a chance to step up, join in, and bring some questions of your own.
Topics will include:
Graphic Novel Manuscript Format
- How it’s different for author/illustrators vs. authors-only – with examples!
- What’s the difference between a graphic novel, a comic book, a hybrid, and a picture
book?
Working with an Illustrator
- How to give/take/approach the partnership, and constructive criticism
- Contract!
Next Steps
- Is querying or crowdfunding the right path for your project?
o Some tips from my own experiences with Crowdfundr and Kickstarter
Comics are for everyone! Let’s learn together, and have some fun!
Speaker Bio:
Marie Ventura (Pen Name: Rowena Zahnrei), is a neurodiverse (ASD) author. A graduate of URI, PC, and the University of St Andrews, she has experience teaching and tutoring students from pre-K through college. Her short comics have been published in the anthologies Comics from the Kitchen! and Let’s Go!: A Kids Comics Studio Anthology (featured at the 2026 MoCCA Arts Fest in NYC), and her graphic novel trilogy – The Adventures of Nicki and Ricky: Baffling Birds! – has been accepted to Comic-Cons across the country, including RI, NYC, and San Diego. She’s a member of ARIA, SCBWI, and Kids Comics Unite.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 15.00
