Organised by Royal College of Art
Human beings have a natural need for storytelling. Every day we may recall autobiographical incidents, reflect upon memories, gossip or simply chat. But it is much more difficult to create a narrative that can engage a wide audience. We soon become aware of the importance of form. A narrative needs structure; it has to be built. Composition, tone, colour, pacing and tempo are the things we have to engage with.
Led by Andrzej Klimowski, the Graphic Novel: Visual Storytelling offers a fresh approach to the subject. Aimed at releasing the imagination, this is an open opportunity for self-expression. The course is co-led by celebrated RCA alumnus and illustrator Miguel Angel Valdivia.
At the end of this course you will have gained:
- a deeper understanding of contemporary approaches to storytelling, visual narratives and illustration in the context of graphic novels
- insights on the potential of location, characterisation, materiality and perception in the creation of visual narratives and graphic novels
- confidence in creating your own illustration and visual narratives
- skills to work in a range of settings from traditional to contemporary, from print to electronic, handmade or computer-generated.
Through a series of workshops, lectures, practical exercises and presentations you will:
- experience the RCA model of 'learning by doing' in order to develop design and presentation techniques while building a portfolio
- work with practitioners and educators to develop a critical, creative and insightful practice in a safe and nurturing environment in which to experiment
- develop an enhanced notion of what a contemporary illustration practice can be
- expand your skills and grow confidence in making your own graphic novel.
- Post-course, we may offer a 20-minute session per delegate with Professor Andrzej Klimowski and Miguel Angel Valdivia, where participants have an opportunity to get feedback on their work and discuss key take-outs from the course (optional).
This course is delivered online and is highly interactive, through live learning with self-directed work undertaken by participants between sessions.
The course will run over four weeks, with two x four-hour sessions each week with optional networking after each session.
Week 1: 30 June & 3 July 2025
Week 2: 7 & 10 July 2025
Week 3: 14 & 17 July 2025
Week 4: 21 & 24 July 2025