Female Artists Face Disappearing Act in American Comics Pages
The world of comics is undergoing a significant shift as female artists are facing challenges in getting their work published in American newspapers. Last fall, many female artists noticed their work disappearing from the pages of newspapers across the country, particularly those owned by the USA Today Network.
The USA Today Network, owned by Gannett, announced that it was “standardizing” its comics across more than 200 publications. However, what caught the attention of many cartoonists and industry observers was the absence of female artists in the new lineup of print offerings. Out of dozens of comics listed, only three had a credited woman artist.
This trend has raised concerns among female cartoonists who are experiencing a decline in income from client papers. The consolidation and contraction of print funnies in recent years have disproportionately affected female artists, leading to double-digit percentage losses in their income.
Hilary Price, creator of the syndicated strip “Rhymes With Orange,” noted a significant dip in her sales income as a result of these changes. She expressed frustration over the lack of representation of female artists on America’s comics pages and the challenges they face in the industry.
Despite the challenges, female cartoonists remain resilient and determined to navigate the changing landscape of the comics industry. They are exploring new avenues for distribution and engaging with fans through various platforms to continue sharing their work.
As the industry evolves, female artists are hopeful that their voices will be heard and their work will be valued. While the traditional print syndication model may be facing challenges, artists are adapting to new opportunities and finding ways to connect with audiences in a digital age.
Overall, the story highlights the struggles and resilience of female artists in the comics industry and sheds light on the need for greater diversity and representation in the world of cartooning.