New Closet is a capstone project in the form of a digital graphic novel that analyses how social commentary of queer representation and identity is addressed in superhero comics.
Individual Project
Illustration, Editorial Design
Procreate, InDesign, Clip Studio Paint
September 2020 – April 2021
PROJECT BRIEF
Comic books have been degraded as a form of childish literature that has also been considered what encourages "juvenile delinquency" (Seduction of the Innocent, Dr. Fredric Wertham). Yet at the same time, graphic novel formats are some of the most effective ways to tell a story and address real life issues. If this is the case, what about queer identity in superhero comics? New Closet is a collection of those questions both answered and unanswered from the perspective of somebody delving into their experience being apart of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum and superpowered world. It doesn't aim to reinvent the wheel of the comic format, because why would one need to change something that already works?
You can download the EPUB (for mobile tablets) or PDF (for desktop) here!
If it tickles your fancy, here's the whole research process.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
Comic books have a muddy history in the USA. Dr. Frederic Wertham's claimed comics instrilled poor behaviour and caused delinquency, which spiked fear into the American population, particularly with parents and teachers. This sank the comicbook industry after WWII. To save itself, the comicbook industry started to self-regulate its production and distribution, introducing censorship via the Comics Code Authority (CCA). This censorship once heavily limited queer representation, among other themes such as violence and religion.
COMIC BOOK INFLUENCE
Albeit a form that focuses on stunning visuals, it is exactly the visuals mixed with linguistic narrative that makes comic books so influential. Individuals tend to relate more to a character they can see rather than relying solely on personal imagination. Witnessing a storyline through this character doubles-down on how effective they are to human connection. Comics can either offer a mirror of reflection to the viewer, or offer a window to look out of to understand new issues outside of their typical echo chamber bubble.
SUPERHEROES IN THE CLOSET
Superheroes are inherently queer. The matter of their identity being public or private is thematically equivalent to those who are 'closeted' or 'out'. While the genre of superheroes tends to have an overarching theme of fighting for justice, freedom, and safety, they are also ideals that the queer community fight for.
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