From January’s Ashes
Digitally-illustrated graphic novel, 6” x 9”, 2020
Growing up nestled within the Appalachian Mountains of eastern Kentucky, I always knew that the place I had come to know and love was much different from the places my friends called home. Especially in today’s political climate, Appalachia is often used as a negative talking point, leaving a bad taste in the mouth of people who are not even familiar with the culture of Appalachia. How, then, can I create positive associations with the region?
I made the decision to form these ideas within an original graphic novel, allowing me to control both the narrative and the visual language. This graphic novel works to incorporate elements of Appalachian culture and other experiences I had growing up while telling a compelling story through words and visuals. My story is not about Appalachia, but it does take place in Appalachia. Elements of my own culture are woven into place, geography, and dialogue within the story. Beyond that, however, I want to create a compelling narrative that evokes multiple emotions. I aim to tell a story of the Appalachia that I know through narrative which features complex and interesting characters that readers can relate to. By creating connections between readers and characters, it is my hope that others will see Appalachia in a new light.
Below are some selected spreads from the comic. To view the full comic (completely free), please click here.
