I know some friends and seniors who work in the comic industry, and their overall conclusion is that the job is tiring, sometimes a bit discouraging, and it requires good physical health. A comic artist usually has to complete all the work alone, including writing the script, planning the storyboards, and drawing the drafts. Later, if they have enough financial support, they can hire assistants, but that also requires a stable income from serialization. In the beginning, most comic artists have to work independently. However, these seniors also told me that they chose this path because they truly loved creating comics. I feel the same way. If I don’t try it myself, how can I know whether I am suitable or not?
Because of this, I plan to set up an independent studio after graduation, with only myself at the start. I will try to complete the early stages of comic production on my own, and at the same time take some animation outsourcing work as a part-time job to support my living expenses (which is something I am already doing now). I still feel optimistic about my future, because I already have some experience with serialized comics and a small base of readers. I am not too worried about my starting point. As long as I can keep going, I believe it will become something truly meaningful.
I have always believed that the animation and comic industries are closely connected. The animation training I received during my undergraduate and postgraduate studies has helped me a lot. My sketching practice, my understanding of animation principles, and the way I learned to use the camera all give me skills that will allow me to perform even better in my future work as a comic artist. I know the road ahead may be difficult, but I am willing to face the challenges. As long as I keep creating, I believe I will move closer to the future I want.
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