FAQ: Breaking into the Business as a Writer.

Posted: Tuesday, March 19, 2002
By: Darren Schroeder

A reader recently asked:

Is it possible for me to break into things as a writer only?

Sure, but the trick is finding an artist you can work with and the both of you agreeing how to tell the stories. It's alway best to work with someone local, so check out the local comic shop and see if there are any artists looking for writers, or try putting some adds up in any local polytechnics or design schools that have graphic design departments as this seems to be where a lot of comic illustrators train.

If that doesn't work post a "writer looking for artist" message to one of the newsgroups : news:rec.arts.comics.misc or news:aus.arts.comics or a mailing list like my favourite, small press net - http://groups.yahoo.com/group/smallpressnet

Before you do, try to have a few story ideas and scripts ready to go so the artist can see what sort of thing you want to collaborate on. If you can draw, maybe do some layouts as well.

And remember, you can always just draw it yourself. As long as things are clear and easy to follow people will forgive a lot if the story is entertaining. I draw my own stuff and even though I'm crap, people still seem to get a laugh out of it.

If any readers have suggestions, or are looking for writers or artists feel free to use the SBC message boards to swap contact details.

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