Graphic novels and comics appeal to all ages by presenting a compelling story enhanced with original art that encourages the imagination. Whether it is a single panel comic or a complete graphic novel, the message is clear: have fun with reading.
All ages are invited to explore the history of comics and learn to create their own stories during two free workshops. Their workshops are part of Tulsa City-County Library’s summer reading program for children, teens and adults.
“Create Comics the Native American Way: Meet the Indigenous Narratives Collective” Wednesday, June 24, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Zarrow Regional Library, 2224 W. 51st St. Join Roy Boney (Cherokee), Michael Sheyahshe (Caddo) and Arigon Starr (Kickapoo/Creek) for a one-day seminar focused on the history of Native American images in comics and the emergence of Indigenous creators in the comic-book industry. Sponsored by Tulsa Library Trust and American Indian Resource Center.
“The Indigenous Narratives Collective Presents Let’s Make Comics!” Thursday, June 25, 5-8 p.m., Zarrow Regional Library. Join Roy Boney (Cherokee), Michael Sheyahshe (Caddo) and Arigon Staff (Kickapoo/Creek) for a workshop geared toward kids and kids-at-heart. Participants will create a one-page comic. You don’t have to be a great artist to make comics, just have a desire to tell stories with words and pictures. Paper and pencils will be provided. Sponsored by Tulsa Library Trust and American Indian Resource Center.
Arigon Starr is an actress, musician and artist. Using pencil, inks and lettering skills, she created “Super Indian” as an on-line comic book series and a graphic novel. “Super Indian Volume Two” was published this past April. She also is a founder of the Indigenous Narratives Collective, a group of Native American Comic creators who published “Tales of the Mighty Code Talkers.”
Michael Sheyahshe wrote the book “Native Americans in Comic Books: A Critical Study,” which investigates how Native Americans have been and continue to be portrayed in comic books. He is formerly both a Gates Millennium Scholar and a Ronald E. McNair Scholar. He also was awarded the Smithsonian Institution’s Native American Award.
Roy Boney is an award-winning filmmaker, artist and writer, as well as the Language Program Manager at Cherokee Nation. As a graphic novelist he has worked on several titles, including the critically acclaimed “Dead Eyes Open,” and was a contributing artist to the Eisner Award nominated anthology “Trickster: Native American Tales.”
For more information on Tulsa City-County Library events, programming and services, call the AskUs Hotline, 918-549-7323, or visit www.tuslalibrary.org.
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