COMIC BOOKS AS
SOURCE MATERIAL

Comic books today are undervalued as a distinctive art form. Currently, less than two million people read comic books. In actuality, the influence of comic books is substantial as seen with numerous adaptations in mainstream media including film franchises, television series, and video games that reach billions of people worldwide.

Comic books have shaped American childhoods and popular culture since the 1930s, consumption peaking during the 1940s with seventy-million fans in the United States. Stories and characters that once had their home on a comic book page now reach a diverse range of audiences, proving to be a powerful inspirational source in our digital age.

As both a narrative and visual product, comic books are a collaborative process between writers, pencilers, inkers, letterers, and colorers. The imaginary universes, relatable characters, and compelling storylines created by comic books provide an alternative reality that captivates audiences.

The significance of comic books extends beyond a mass-produced, disposable form of entertainment and the content is now the foundation of a mega industry in modern culture.