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graphic truths

Graphic Truths

Graphic Truths is a collaborative, cross art-form project exploring graphic novels, comic books and illustrated writing. The project involves professional artists, illustrators, poets and writers, working in partnership with young people (aged 11 - 25). Graphic Truths aims to broaden the experiences of young people who are drawn to comics and the Japanese Manga style of illustration by introducing them to other artistic influences. Eastside was awarded a research and development bursary from Arts Council England to develop models of innovative and high quality collaborations between visual artists, writers and young people. As part of this programme we run projects and workshops in libraries and schools as well as at the Lower Eastside. A grant from Mediabox has enabled Eastside to introduce young people to industry professionals within publishing to produce their own magazines over which they have creative, technical and managerial control. Working with a range of visual storytellers offers valuable opportunities for young people to discover new approaches to creating and developing original narratives which are widely distributed. The project helps participants to improve their drawing skills, with an equal focus on writing and storytelling and is designed to help young people find their own artistic voice. Participants have interviewed people at a local library to create a piece of graphic reportage, created graphic poetry on T-shirts inspired by their favourite music to form an unusual art installation, created large scale comic books inspired by block printing, and produced a graphic memoir in a weekend. Art work produced is being exhibited at Homerton Library in September 2009 as part of the Write to Ignite festival.

Tales of Diversity - Graphic magazine
Graphic Truths - Artists' blog
Graphic Truths - Interview audio podcast