Cartooning: Visual Storytelling for Adults

Ever wanted to make your own children’s book, comic, or graphic novel but didn’t know where to start—or simply “can’t draw”? Looking for a good, positive outlet for stress/anxiety or, conversely, are so inspired by the beauty that surrounds us that it begs to be shared with others? Give cartooning a chance!

Everyone has their story to tell. Cartooning is a fun and accessible way to communicate your ideas with others. It can be as goofy or frivolous as you like but needn’t be limited to humour. As within other art forms, cartooning allows us to explore our observations, feelings, and impressions of the world with the world, whatever they may be. Cartooning concepts are versatile and can be applied to a wide range of tones and topics.

This course will consist of a series of lessons, exercises, and independent/collaborative work time in a fun and supportive environment. Some of the topics include:

• Brainstorming and idea generation: getting past the block of the blank page.
• Designing characters that support the story.
• Planning out narratives and other kinds of stories.
• Considerations for working with text and image together.

The images shown represent the activities planned, and will be used as examples to explain various concepts in the course.

* NO CLASSES on Monday, Feb 17 (Family Day), the week of March 10-14, and Easter Monday, Apr 21, 2025.