A new graphic novel anthology aims to pair comics industry veterans with up-and-coming creators for an opportunity to foster new female creators.

Womanthology intends to showcase the works of women in comics. It is created entirely by over 140 women of all experience levels. All proceeds will go to charity. IDW Publishing has agreed to publish the graphic novel but printing and distributing costs are still prohibitive. On July 7, project manager Renae De Liz set up a Kickstarter page. And amazingly just over 18 hours later, the project met its goal of $25,000. Not yet a week later and the project is over double that.

Turning to crowd-funding for this project ended up being a smart move because it has sent a very loud signal that there are people willing to put significant money forward for female comic book creators. Meanwhile, DC Comics was unable (or unwilling) to find more than 2 or 3 female creators to work on their highly publicized New 52 relaunch this September. Marvel Comics released their own Girl Comics anthology last year but it didn’t change the fact that they and in fact most comics publishers have a lack of female creators as well. When you’re cutting off the perspective of 50% of the population, you’re shooting yourself in the foot. There isn’t a lack of quality female comic book creators. 140 in this project alone and there are plenty that weren’t able to be included.

The volume will also include plenty of extra material to encourage young girls to take up comics.

The purpose of the book is to show support for female creators in comics and media. There will be multiple short stories, “how to”s & interviews with professionals, and features showcasing iconic female comic creators that have passed, such as Nell Brinkley and Tarpe Mills. A Kids & Teens section will also be included, showcasing their work, and offering tips & tricks to help them prepare themselves for their future careers in comics. Overall, this is pretty much a huge book showcasing what women in comics have accomplished, and what we are capable of 🙂 We are also hoping that by doing this book, it will encourage a new generation of women to pick up the pencil and create!