Comic Art Crash Course (Online)

Course description

Learn the basics of creating a short-form comic from start to finish over the course of five weeks. Alongside completing this project, learn about topics such as comic craft and production, drawing processes and techniques, and 2D art principles. The knowledge and skills learned in this class also assist with developing narrative structure and concepts, critical thinking, and navigating the industry and publishing. / Students will have access to Adobe Creative Cloud software throughout the course.

Open to students ages 16 and above. Review complete policies, including class cancellation policies, before completing your registration.

Class meeting details

This online course is asynchronous, meaning that there are no set class meeting times. Instead, the course is project-based, with 2 to 3 deadlines per week, and students can choose a time and place that works best for them to complete the work. Course activities may include readings, video demonstrations and tutorials, online discussions, projects, and critiques.

The instructor will have virtual office hours to answer questions and provide individualized feedback and guidance. Expect 3-5 hours of work a week.

Prerequisites

Previous drawing experience required. Students working digitally must have prior experience with their chosen software; the class offers no software instruction.

Required Materials

Supplies

• pen or pencil
• notebook or sketchbook
• 11 x 14" or larger bristol pad
• three drawing pencils, 2B, B or HB (softer), H or 2H (harder)
• two technical pens, .03 & .05
• bottle of black India ink, 1oz
• watercolor brush, round size 1 or 2
• pencil sharpener
• eraser
• t-square, 18”
• ruler, 12" or larger, cork-back preferred

Students are welcome to work digitally using software and tools of their choice.

Software (if working digitally)

• Adobe Creative Cloud (provided by MCAD).
• Other software recommendations; Procreate, Clip Studio, or Affinity (not provided by MCAD).

Hardware

• A computer with internet access, a camera or scanner to capture and upload work.
• If working with Adobe Creative Cloud a computer capable of running Adobe Creative Cloud software.
• If working digitally a drawing tablet or screen is recommended (Wacom, Bamboo, iPad, etc.)

Textbooks

• Making Comics: Storytelling Secrets of Comics, Manga and Graphic Novels by Scott McCloud, ISBN 0060780940

Class resources

This class uses Canvas, MCAD’s learning management system. Please see the link for more information.

Class savings

Register on or before May 11 and save $25.
Register for more than one class at a time and receive $25 off each additional class (same-day registrations only).
Additional savings. Are you eligible?

Questions?

Contact MCAD Continuing Education at continuing_education@mcad.edu or call 612.874.3765.