USAO’ resident artist to hold masterclass on creating independent comics

In another instance of the institution providing a distinctive and interdisciplinary learning opportunity, the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma’s current resident artist, Jerry Bennett, and Literati Press Comics publisher Charles J. Martin will hold a masterclass entitled “The Reality of Making and Selling Indie Comics!” Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m. in the Davis Hall Amphitheatre.

Having previously collaborated on “Glamorella’s Daughter,” Bennett and Martin will discuss the logistics and avenues of publishing available to artists, as well as the many ups and downs of creating comics in Oklahoma. They will briefly talk about the process of making the works themselves before delving into how to succeed in taking these comics to local markets and beyond. The event is free and open to any USAO students, staff or faculty with an interest in the topic or just in creativity in general.

“Comics are having a real renaissance and independent comics are at the peak of their prominence,” said Bennett. “We want to help point comic creators in the right direction on how to best get their original stories in front of audiences.”

A 1993 USAO alumni, Bennett has had a long and varied career as a successful artist in Oklahoma and elsewhere, having previously worked with Lucasfilm, Marvel and Saban in addition to his independent creations. The university’s art department asked him to serve as their artist-in-residence for the fall 2021 and spring 2022 terms, and he is already brimming with ideas about how to help students prepare for what they can expect from life as a professional artist in the 21st century.

USAO’ artist-in-residence program provides essential time, space and resources for the encounter of different cultures and disciplines in the world of creativity and curiosity and to engage them in the use of various media, concepts and critical thinking skills. It provides professional guidance to students and actively engages with their needs through face-to-face meetings and clear communication with all faculty and students.