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Writing for Comics & Graphic Novels with Paul Mason

  • Queensland Writers Centre Stanley Place South Brisbane, QLD, 4101 Australia (map)
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Learn how comics and graphic novels tell stories visually, and how to write them!

You’ve probably read one, but could you write one? In this introductory seminar, award-winning cartoonist and animation concept designer, Paul Mason, will explore the language of comics and the comic book page. You will learn the fundamentals visual storytelling and considerations involved in comics and visual narratives. Paul will also share methods for writing comics as either a solo cartoonist or as part of a collaboration, as well as tips for catering your writing for the length of the story being told.

Unavailable to make it in person? You can also watch this workshop via online live stream! Live stream tickets are available here.

Learning Outcomes:

Through examples, case studies, and group discussion, you will learn:

  • The components of a comic book page and industry terminologies

  • The roles undertaken in the development of a comic book/graphic novel in both a commercial and independent setting.

  • A base understanding of visual storytelling for comics

  • The interplay between words and pictures that takes place on the page

  • The types of writing by way of format: plot-driven, full-script, and hybrid methods

  • Considerations for solo creating (writing with the intent to draw yourself), or collaborative creating (working with an artist/s)

  • Lettering 101: Introductory considerations of the writer’s words on the page

Format:

This is a hybrid workshop with a focus on craft; it will be live streamed simultaneously to an online audience. It is a level 1 course, suitable all writers.

More information on program formats and level definitions can be found here.

About Paul:

Dr. Paul Mason (DVA) is an award-winning cartoonist, and animation concept designer, who has worked for companies such as Frew Publications (THE PHANTOM, KID PHANTOM) Gestalt comics, and A Stark Productions. Paul is a sessional lecturer in visual storytelling, art direction, animation pre-production, and comics as part of the Bachelor of Animation program at the Griffith Film School, Griffith University.

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Conditions of Entry

State Library of Queensland are open in line with the Queensland Government’s Roadmap to easing restrictions. The health and safety of our staff and visitors is our top priority.

1. You will not be able to enter State Library if:

  • You currently have COVID-19.

  • You have been told to quarantine.

  • You are unwell or are displaying COVID-19 or cold/flu symptoms, no matter how mild.

  • You have been in contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19 in the last 14 days.

  • You have returned from overseas travel in the last 14 days.

  • You have returned from a declared COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days.

2. Use the hand sanitiser provided before you enter.

3. Your details will be requested via our booking systems, and this information may be forwarded to Queensland Health if necessary for COVID-19 contact tracing procedures.

4. You must leave the building following your booking to allow for spaces to be sanitised in between sessions.

5. Keep 1.5 metres away from others at all times.

6. Only EFTPOS transactions are available at this time (no cash accepted).

The conditions may be subject to change.

We respect your privacy. Personal information we collect is used only for our internal activities and functions (Libraries Act 1988 (Qld)) and will not be disclosed unless required by law. For more information, please read State Library's privacy statement.

For further information on accessing the State Library of Queensland, visit their website here



FAQs

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

Unless otherwise stated, Queensland Writers Centre workshops and events are suitable for participants aged 16 years and over. If you are under 18 years of age, please check with us for suitability before purchasing a ticket. 

Membership will be confirmed on arrival, in the event it isn't current, membership will need to be arranged.

What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?

Information on getting to the State Library of Queensland can be found here.

What can I bring into the event?

You can bring either pen and paper or a laptop along with you to write with. If you do bring a laptop, please remember to bring a power adaptor if necessary. 

Will this event be live streamed?

Queensland Writers Centre aims to provide material to its membership regardless of where they reside within Queensland by live streaming some events. Attendees may be broadcast periodically throughout the event as recording takes place. If you wish not to be filmed, let staff know prior to the event.

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

You can contact us by phone on 07 3842 9922 or email us at admin@qldwriters.org.au

What's the refund policy?

If Queensland Writers Centre cancels an event, we will try to reschedule it for a later date. If we cannot reschedule the event, or if you are unable to attend on the amended date, your payment will be refunded in full.Except in special circumstances, if you cancel a booking for, or are unable to attend an event, workshop, seminar, or course, Queensland Writers Centre cannot provide a refund. You can contact us to discuss your situation on 07 3842 9922 or email us at admin@qldwriters.org.au

Terms and Conditions

All information is correct at the time of publication. We reserve the right to make changes to the advertised program information (including course content and tutors), but if this occurs, we will try to provide as much notice as possible.We expect that all participants will behave respectfully and professionally towards their tutor and fellow students. We reserve the right to remove anyone who behaves in an aggressive or disruptive manner. If a participant is asked to leave the class on this basis, we will not offer a refund.We cannot accept responsibility for any loss, damage or expense sustained by students as a result of an event or circumstance whether arising from natural cause, human agency or beyond our control otherwise.