Dustin Gebel
A new comic showcase/anthology is ready to hit shelves in the form of Comics Are Dying: The Comic. Written and curated by Louis Southard, the volume tells the story of the comic book industry through a series of 100 pages, each illustrated by a different artist. Alongside the 100 artists, illustrator Sean Peacock provided the cover for the volume. The process is stated in the press release as an opportunity for both new and established creators to reflect on the continuous cycle of peril that the comic industry and medium is reported to be trapped in.
Southland described the inspiration for the book in the press release, stating:
I was incensed and motivated at the end of 2023 following me witnessing bullies, fanatics, and con men abusing this industry online and in real life. I felt that I wanted–or needed–to do something about it and put some much needed optimism into the world of comic books. More importantly, I didn’t want to just talk. I needed to do something more tangible. I wanted to help the industry by giving people jobs and a chance to show off their artistic merit. It’s a personal and financial gambit on my end, but I care about the comic book industry and I believe the people who keep it alive must be treated well, paid on time, and given the opportunity to shine. If I can do that on my own as an independent creator, there’s no real excuse for any other larger entity not to. These are some of the best people working today and, without them, we have nothing but words.”
Alongside the information about the volume, a first look at five interior pages can be seen below.
Comics Are Dying: The Comic does not currently have a publisher, but according to the press release, if one cannot be found, it will be made available online for free.