At the heart of my graphic novel is the journey of a young Shaman, an initially unsure apprentice who grows into a confident spiritual guide. His path isn’t straightforward; it’s a mix of triumphs and defeats. Each situation provides a lesson about his spiritual powers and the depth of his faith. His journey through doubt and self-assurance shapes his character arc, creating an empathetic hero for my readers. Collective memory within the village is brought to life through rituals, legends, and songs. The detailed depictions of shamanic practices— dances, chants, and ritualistic costumes — imbue the story with authenticity and depth. The Shaman’s dance acts as a symbolic journey where he confronts his fears and doubts. The mountain God appears in various forms throughout the story — nature, dreams, the statue, or even within the shaman. Interactions between the Shaman and the God serve as narrative devices triggering self-discovery and acceptance of his role. The tension between traditional beliefs and modern skepticism is reflected through the villagers. Their attitudes symbolize this conflict, with the destruction of the mountain god statue representing the imminent threat to their tradition. The artwork is a crucial aspect of my project, capturing the mysticism and spirituality of shamanic culture. Vibrant hues depict the spiritual experiences and nature, contrasting with darker tones for villagers’ skepticism and fears. Characters, attire and settings, inspired by real-world shamanic cultures, add authenticity and allure to the narrative. After completion, my graphic novel can reach audiences via digital platforms like Comixology and physical bookstores. It can be promoted at comic conventions, book fairs, and through social media. Collaborating with influencers in spirituality, mythology or indigenous cultures might be a savvy way to reach the target audience. This endeavor, exploring faith, tradition, and personal growth, promises to be a captivating journey.
I am an illustration student from China, living in London. I focus on how images based on folk and religious cultures evolve among Generation Z. My illustrative work encompasses multimedia forms of creation, including animation and books. In my work, I extensively use bright colors and strong contrasts.