Comics Clinic, Parts 1 & 2 (for English and Spanish speakers)

Register here for both Part 1: Create a Character & Part 2: Create a Mini Strip

Part 1: Create a Character

Unleash your imagination and bring your own comic book character to life! In this beginner workshop, you’ll explore the core elements of character creation—from designing a unique visual style to building compelling backstories, personalities, powers, and motivations. Whether you’re a budding artist or just love comics, you’ll learn techniques to develop original, memorable characters that leap off the page.

Through fun prompts, brainstorming, and guidance, you’ll sketch and refine your own superhero, antihero, villain, or everyday legend. No experience required—just a passion for stories and creativity.

Part 2: Create a Mini Strip

Step into the exciting world of comic-making in this fun workshop! Whether you’re a young artist or a curious storyteller, you’ll learn how to bring your own mini comic strip to life from start to finish. From creating a narrative to adding sound effects that POP! off the page, this workshop covers the essentials of comic creation in a playful, beginner-friendly format.

In this workshop, you’ll learn how to:

1. Design Character ID Cards – Based on characters created in Part 1.
2. Draw Story Panels – Learn how to break a story into panels using simple layout techniques.
3. Use Onomatopoeia – Add exciting sound effects like BOOM, ZAP, and WHOOSH to make your comics come alive.
4. Build a Storyline and Create a Mini Comic – Plan a short comic and draw your own mini story from beginning to end!

Instructor Bio:
Paola Sahulka is a Psychologist and Instructional Designer who has 25 years of experience designing art classes in elementary and middle schools and more recently teaching after school and library programs in Hunterdon County Libraries. She is passionate to share her experience with the community. Paola is bilingual and can teach in both Spanish and English.